A return for Niclas Füllkrug to SV Werder Bremen appears to be growing increasingly improbable.
According to reports from kicker, while the northern club would fundamentally be open to re-signing the striker, the prospect of a homecoming is currently proving difficult. This is primarily because West Ham United is unwilling to release the forward on a free transfer.
Adding to the complexity, Werder has already secured the signing of attacking talent Kenny Quetant from AC Le Havre a few weeks ago. Furthermore, Dawid Kownacki remains on the wage bill after his loan spell at Hertha BSC, and long-term injured player Keke Topp (cruciate ligament tear) is also still with the team. Additionally, Bremen is reportedly on the verge of signing Cédric Itten.
The Swiss World Cup participant is expected to undergo his medical examination soon, potentially during the World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Following Fortuna Düsseldorf’s relegation to the 3. Liga, the 29-year-old would join Bremen on a free transfer. This acquisition would also mark a reunion with coach Daniel Thioune, who had to leave the crisis-ridden club during the past season and ultimately led Werder to safety.
Füllkrug’s Future Uncertain After Milan Loan Spell
Nevertheless, kicker indicates that Werder’s plan is to sign another striker. Thioune is reportedly considering the possibility of playing with two forwards in the future. The report does not specify who is being considered as an alternative to Füllkrug for this role.
Füllkrug, who played for Werder from 2006 to 2014 and again from 2019 to 2023, with a loan spell at Fürth interrupting his tenure, faces an uncertain future. After his €27 million transfer from Borussia Dortmund to West Ham United, he never quite managed to make his mark in England, partly due to persistent injury issues.
A move to Milan followed in the winter, and Werder was also reportedly interested in a loan deal. Füllkrug had a strong start at AC Milan but subsequently found himself mostly as an «elite reserve» under head coach Massimiliano Allegri, who has since been dismissed. Consequently, he missed out on a spot in the World Cup squad and was not permanently signed. His contract in London is valid until 2028.
Niclas Füllkrug’s Statistics at Werder Bremen
| Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 124 | 49 | 16 |