Werder Bremen managing director Clemens Fritz has confirmed his desire to retain West Ham United‘s Niclas Füllkrug beyond this season.
The striker left the German club for Borussia Dortmund in 2023, and a year later, West Ham signed him permanently.
Füllkrug failed to replicate his Bundesliga form in the Premier League, managing only three goals for the Hammers. The dip in performance and minutes led to a loan move to AC Milan in January.
The Serie A side had a purchase option but didn’t exercise it after he scored one goal in the second half of the 2025/26 season. This meant he returned to the London club, who dropped to the Championship.
Nuno Espírito Santo didn’t include the 33-year-old in his core plans. Therefore, West Ham allowed him to return to Werder Bremen on loan in August.
West Ham man regains form
The Germany international regularly struggled with fitness issues at West Ham United. Last month, he opened up about suffering “a lot” physically while in England.
He has put that suffering behind him and is enjoying life at Werder Bremen, scoring seven goals from seven matches. This includes at least a goal in each of the last five league matches.
Niclas Füllkrug’s impressive start has already led to reports of extending his stay beyond this season. On October 13th, we relayed news of the Bundesliga side’s firm interest to retain him.
A day later, Sport Witness covered a report from Germany explaining that Werder Bremen want to do everything in their power to buy the West Ham United man.
Werder Bremen official backs up media reports
At the weekend, Niclas Füllkrug scored a brace in the German club’s 2-2 draw against SC Paderborn.
On Sunday, Werder Bremen managing director Clemens Fritz spoke to Sky Deutschland about the West Ham United owned player’s future beyond this season. He was happy to confirm their desire to hold on to the Germany international.
“Ultimately, there are three parties involved: West Ham, Niclas, and Werder Bremen. And that’s what makes it challenging. Things are sometimes a bit easier with only two parties,” he said.
“Niclas feels comfortable in Bremen. He’s a huge asset to us. Of course, I would be delighted, and I’m sure all of Bremen would be too, if he stayed with us beyond this season. It’s still too early to say.”
The frontman’s contract in London lasts until 2028, and Nuno Espírito Santo’s side will have a big say on a potential sale. Considering his struggles in England, it would be in the parent club’s interest to part ways with him permanently.
Bundesliga vs Premier League
| Statistic | Bundesliga | Premier League |
|---|---|---|
| Clubs | Werder Bremen, Hannover 96, Borussia Dortmund | West Ham United |
| Appearances | 163 | 26 |
| Minutes played | 10,723 | 1,195 |
| Goals | 62 | 3 |
| Assists | 18 | 2 |
| Goals + assists | 80 | 5 |
| Minutes per goal | 173.0 | 398.3 |
| Minutes per goal contribution | 134.0 | 239.0 |
relegation play-offs and 2. Bundesliga appearances excluded.
Goal contribution = goal or assist. Assists follow Opta definitions.
Bundesliga totals include his 2026/27 return to Werder Bremen.· Updated 19 October 2026
