Wolverhampton Wanderers and Fulham are preparing January moves for West Ham United striker Niclas Fullkrug, as the Hammers seek to move the struggling German off their wage bill.
New Manager, New Targets for Struggling Wolves
Wolves have appointed Rob Edwards as their new manager, with the former Watford and Luton Town boss leaving his role at Middlesbrough to return to Molineux. Edwards, who previously played for and coached at the Midlands club, inherits a team in serious trouble, sitting bottom of the Premier League table after the first 11 fixtures.
The club finds itself in the relegation zone alongside West Ham and Nottingham Forest, with a concerning eight-point gap to safety behind Burnley in 17th position. The January transfer window presents a crucial opportunity for Edwards to strengthen his squad and mount a survival bid.
Fullkrug Emerges as Surprise Target
According to former Everton CEO Keith Wyness, both Wolves and Fulham are showing interest in West Ham's German striker Niclas Fullkrug. Wyness revealed to Football Insider that he had heard whispers of the potential move, suggesting a loan deal could be the most likely outcome.
"I heard a whisper the other day that either Wolves or Fulham might be interested in taking Fullkrug," Wyness stated. "I'm hearing Wolves might be one club who are interested in taking him on and giving him a chance to do something and stay in the Premier League."
A Move That Hasn't Worked Out
West Ham signed Fullkrug in 2024 on a contract running until June 2028, but the transfer has failed to deliver. The 32-year-old Germany international, who has earned 24 caps for his country, has managed just three goals in 24 appearances for the London club, averaging a goal every eight games.
His time in East London has been plagued by injury troubles, compounding his lack of form. Before joining West Ham, Fullkrug enjoyed a productive season with Borussia Dortmund, scoring 15 goals in 45 outings for the Bundesliga giants. Wyness acknowledged that a return to Germany is also a possibility, noting that "players often don't settle in the Premier League for whatever reason."
For West Ham, moving Fullkrug on would achieve the dual purpose of freeing up significant wages and allowing them to potentially recruit a more reliable attacking option. For Wolves, the experienced striker could provide much-needed competition and depth in their forward line as they battle against relegation.
