What Milan need to close Fullkrug deal with West Ham

Reports in Italy confirm that Milan are in talks over a potential deal for Germany international Niclas Fullkrug heading into the January transfer window: Here is what the Rossoneri need to close a deal with West Ham. 

Milan’s need for a new centre-forward was made more urgent following the confirmation that Santiago Gimenez requires surgery on a recurring ankle injury. The Mexico international is expected to have an operation on Thursday, and could face a spell of anywhere from six weeks to three months on the sidelines as a result. 

This means that Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic, considered wingers until this season, plus Christopher Nkunku, are the only currently available forwards for Massimiliano Allegri’s 3-5-2. 

This leaves Milan looking for a new centre-forward, and Fullkrug, described as a traditional no.9, is an enticing short-term option despite his lack of goals for West Ham. 

Reports earlier this week claimed that Milan already have an agreement in place on personal terms. The Rossoneri are willing to cover the €1.5m that Fullkrug is set to earn between January and the end of the 2025-26 campaign. 

Milan still need to come to an agreement with West Ham, however. 

According to reports from Calciomercato.com, Milan would ideally like to agree a straight loan deal with West Ham until the end of the 2025-26 campaign, although they have not yet ruled out the inclusion of an option to buy clause. 

West Ham, meanwhile, are reportedly hoping to include an obligation to buy for a fee in the region of €16m according to Wednesday’s reports. The Premier League outfit paid a fee of €27m to sign the German from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2024.