Niclas Fullkrug Joins West Ham: German Striker Signs Four-Year Deal

West Ham Secures Signing of Niclas Fullkrug from Borussia Dortmund

West Ham United has officially completed the signing of talented Borussia Dortmund forward Niclas Fullkrug. The German striker has inked a four-year contract with the Hammers for a fee estimated at around £27.5 million. This marks an exciting addition to the club during the summer transfer window.

Previous Pursuit and Performance

West Ham had previously attempted to secure Fullkrug's signature last summer when he was still with Werder Bremen. However, the striker chose to join Borussia Dortmund instead. During his time with Dortmund, he netted 15 goals in 43 appearances, including three vital goals in the UEFA Champions League as Dortmund made it to the finals.

Fullkrug's Enthusiasm for the Move

Upon his signing, Fullkrug expressed his excitement, stating, "I'm delighted to be here, and I can't wait to get out on the pitch with my new teammates." He emphasized his belief that the Premier League is the world's top league and that it is the right time for him to make his move to a significant club like West Ham.

A Familiar Connection

Fullkrug has a strong connection with West Ham's technical director, Tim Steidten, with whom he shares a history at Werder Bremen. He has closely followed West Ham's progress and believes in the quality of the team. Fullkrug's enthusiasm extends to playing under head coach Julen Lopetegui, whose playing style he admires and believes will help him deliver his best performances.

West Ham's Summer Transfer Activity

Fullkrug becomes the fifth signing for West Ham this summer, joining defender Max Kilman, winger Luis Guilherme, goalkeeper Wes Foderingham, and Crysencio Summerville. The club is also reportedly advancing negotiations to potentially acquire Manchester United's right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Guido Rodriguez, an Argentine midfielder who is a free agent after parting ways with Real Betis.

Fullkrug's Potential Impact on West Ham

Sky Sports' analyst, Adam Bate, highlighted that at 31, Fullkrug's journey to the Premier League has been long-awaited. He possesses the capability to quickly become a fan-favourite at the club. Having recently made his mark on the German national team as their oldest debutant in a generation, he scored 13 goals for his country, lending credence to his reputation as a reliable substitute option.

Bate stated, "He won over a nation. Now he hopes to do the same at West Ham. They like a mercurial talent in east London but there is a love too for the workhorse. "

Summer Transfer Window Details

The 2024 summer transfer window will officially close on August 30 at 11 pm UK time in the Premier League and 11:30 pm in Scotland. This year, Deadline Day has been synchronized with other major European leagues.

Conclusion

With the signing of Fullkrug, West Ham United continues to bolster its squad as it aims for a successful season in the Premier League. Fans can expect to see how this addition will impact the team's strategy and gameplay in the coming matches.