Newcastle United has completed the signing of German striker Nick Woltemade from VfB Stuttgart in a club-record deal reportedly worth £69 million. The 23-year-old forward has agreed to a long-term contract at St James’ Park, becoming the Magpies’ fifth first-team addition of the summer.
The move culminates a summer-long pursuit by Newcastle, who had previously been linked with other forwards such as Hugo Ekitiké and Benjamin Sesko. Woltemade’s arrival is seen as a significant boost to the club’s attacking options, especially in light of ongoing speculation surrounding the future of current striker Alexander Isak.
Woltemade’s transfer fee surpasses the £35 million Stuttgart received for Benjamin Pavard in 2019, marking a significant investment by Newcastle. The striker’s impressive performances in the Bundesliga, including a standout season with Stuttgart, have made him one of Europe’s most sought-after young talents.
In his first comments as a Newcastle player, Woltemade expressed his excitement about the move. “I’m really happy to be at this amazing club. From the first contact, I felt like the club really wanted me and had big plans for me,” he said. “It’s a big step in my life to leave Germany, but everybody has welcomed me so well, and it already feels like family.”
The transfer also has implications for Newcastle’s squad dynamics. With Woltemade’s arrival, the club appears more open to allowing Isak to leave, should a suitable offer materialize. Reports suggest that Liverpool has agreed to a British record £125 million transfer for Isak, with the deal potentially rising to £130 million with add-ons.
Woltemade’s move to Newcastle is part of a broader trend of Premier League clubs investing heavily in young talent. Clubs like Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester United have also made significant signings this summer, indicating a shift towards long-term planning and youth development.
As Newcastle prepares for the upcoming season, Woltemade’s addition is expected to bolster their attacking options and provide manager Eddie Howe with more flexibility in his tactical approach. The club’s ambitious transfer strategy signals their intent to compete at the highest levels of English and European football.