AC Milan have finalized a loan deal for Niclas Füllkrug from West Ham, securing the German striker to bolster their attacking options for the second half of the 2025/26 season. The deal includes an option to buy, giving Milan the flexibility to make the move permanent if Füllkrug impresses in Serie A.
The 32-year-old forward has struggled during his time in the Premier League, and this loan represents an opportunity for him to revive his career and regain confidence after a difficult spell in London.
The loan deal between AC Milan and West Ham is structured to provide immediate reinforcement to Milan’s squad. The striker will join on a free loan until the end of the season, with Milan covering his full salary. In addition, the agreement includes an £11.4 million option to make the transfer permanent in the summer.
Niclas Füllkrug Transfer Details
- Player Name: Niclas Füllkrug
- Age: 32
- From Club: West Ham United
- To Club: AC Milan
- Loan Duration: 6 months (Winter 2025 – June 2026)
- Option to Buy: £11.4 million
- Salary Coverage: AC Milan covers full salary
- Shirt Number: To be announced
- Previous Appearances (2025/26): 9 appearances, 3 goals
- Position: Centre-forward
- Manager at AC Milan: Massimiliano Allegri
Thanks to a special exemption granted by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), Milan can register Füllkrug immediately, allowing him to be included in the squad for the Serie A match against Cagliari on January 2, even before the official opening of the winter transfer window. This exemption ensures Milan can field him without delay, giving the club a much-needed attacking boost.
AC Milan’s decision to sign Niclas Füllkrug stems from their need for a traditional centre-forward. Manager Massimiliano Allegri has been seeking a striker who can offer physical presence, hold-up play, and goal-scoring ability—qualities Milan have lacked at key moments this season.
Füllkrug is expected to complement Milan’s attacking setup, providing tactical versatility and experience. His arrival comes after Santiago Gimenez, another potential target, underwent surgery, leaving the Rossoneri in urgent need of attacking reinforcements.
Niclas Füllkrug’s Career Journey
Niclas Füllkrug enjoyed a standout season with Werder Bremen in 2021-22, scoring 19 goals and helping the team secure promotion to the Bundesliga. His strong performances in Germany earned him a move to Borussia Dortmund, where he continued his impressive form, registering 15 goals and 10 assists across all competitions.
His performances at Dortmund caught the attention of Premier League clubs, leading to a transfer to West Ham in August 2024. The London club paid a significant £27.5 million for Füllkrug, but his time in England has been hampered by injuries, fitness issues, and difficulty adapting to the pace and physicality of the Premier League.
At the club, Füllkrug made just 29 appearances and scored only three goals. He struggled to make a consistent impact, and his time at the club was further affected by disciplinary issues, including a post-match interview in which he criticized teammates.
The 32-year-old striker’s time at the club has been challenging. Injuries limited his availability, and he never managed to replicate his Bundesliga form in England. Under new manager Nuno Espirito Santo, Füllkrug’s first-team opportunities have been further reduced, with only nine appearances this season.
Despite the high transfer fee and expectations, Füllkrug was unable to cement his place in the starting XI. This made the loan move to AC Milan a practical solution for both the player and West Ham. The Hammers can free up wages and roster space while allowing Füllkrug the chance to regain form in a new environment.
Milan’s Tactical Vision for Füllkrug
Manager Massimiliano Allegri sees Füllkrug as a traditional centre-forward who can provide both goals and physicality. Milan have struggled at times to find a striker capable of holding up the ball, linking play, and finishing consistently in the box. Füllkrug’s Bundesliga experience and tactical awareness make him an ideal candidate to fill this role.
The striker is expected to immediately compete for minutes in Milan’s Serie A matches and could play a key role in the second half of the season. If he performs well, Milan will likely exercise the option to purchase him permanently, adding a seasoned European striker to their squad.
For West Ham, allowing Niclas Füllkrug to leave on loan provides flexibility in the January transfer window. Manager Nuno Espirito Santo is now expected to search for a striker with Premier League or Championship experience to reinforce the squad.
Füllkrug’s departure may be seen as a disappointment for West Ham fans given the investment, but the move is mutually beneficial. The club reduces its wage bill, and Füllkrug has the opportunity to revive his career at a top European club.
The loan move to AC Milan is a chance for Niclas Füllkrug to reset his career. With regular playing time, a supportive environment, and a manager who values his style of play, Füllkrug can regain confidence and form.
Playing in Serie A also provides him with exposure to top European competition, potentially putting him back in contention for the German national team. A strong performance in Italy could revive his reputation and open doors for future transfers.
FAQs:
Q1: Why did AC Milan sign Niclas Füllkrug on loan?
A1: AC Milan needed a traditional centre-forward, and Füllkrug brings physicality and experience to strengthen their attack.
Q2: How did Niclas Füllkrug perform at West Ham?
A2: Füllkrug struggled at West Ham, scoring only three goals in 29 appearances, partly due to injuries and adapting to the Premier League.
Q3: Is there an option for AC Milan to buy Füllkrug permanently?
A3: Yes, the loan deal includes an £11.4 million option to buy in the summer of 2026.
Q4: When will Niclas Füllkrug be available for AC Milan?
A4: Thanks to a FIGC exemption, Füllkrug can be included for Milan’s Serie A match against Cagliari on January 2, 2026.
Q5: What is Niclas Füllkrug’s career history?
A5: Füllkrug had a breakthrough season with Werder Bremen, performed well at Borussia Dortmund, and joined West Ham in 2024 before moving to Milan on loan.
Q6: How does this move affect West Ham?
A6: West Ham will now look for a replacement striker in January to bolster their squad after Füllkrug’s departure.