Newcastle United have completed the signing of German striker Nick Woltemade on a free transfer, with the 23-year-old due to undergo a medical on Friday. The move ends manager Eddie Howe's lengthy search for a forward and could pave the way for Alexander Isak's departure to Liverpool.
Woltemade, who has two caps for Germany, scored 17 goals in 33 appearances for Stuttgart last season. He was also on Bayern Munich's radar. The transfer fee is reported to be a club record, surpassing the £63m paid for Isak three years ago, though the exact figure remains unconfirmed.
Howe has been seeking a striker after being rejected by several targets, including Liam Delap, Hugo Ekitiké, João Pedro, and Benjamin Sesko. The situation was compounded by Isak's strike as he attempts to force a move to Anfield. Newcastle have already rejected a £110m offer from Liverpool for the Swedish forward, but a bid closer to £130m may be accepted.
With Callum Wilson having joined West Ham and Isak's future uncertain, Newcastle are still in the market for another striker. A second £55m bid for Wolves' Jørgen Strand Larsen was rejected, and negotiations for Brentford's Yoane Wissa remain ongoing, with the player keen on a move to St James' Park.
Woltemade, standing at 6ft 6in, is known for his skill and has been dubbed a 'Two metre Messi-Musiala' by Stuttgart fans. He will be tasked with converting crosses from new signing Anthony Elanga, who arrived from Nottingham Forest for £55m. Other summer additions include Malick Thiaw, Jacob Ramsey, and Aaron Ramsdale, providing much-needed depth for Howe's squad.
