In a bustling summer transfer window, Premier League heavyweights Arsenal, Liverpool, and West Ham United have set their sights on VfB Stuttgart’s sensational forward Nick Woltemade. According to exclusive reports from CaughtOffside, the trio of English clubs has initiated contact with the Bundesliga side to explore the possibility of securing the 23-year-old German striker’s signature for a reported €50 million.
Woltemade’s Breakout Season Sparks Interest
Nick Woltemade has emerged as one of Europe’s most promising attacking talents following an outstanding 2024/25 campaign with Stuttgart. The 6ft 6in forward, who joined the club on a free transfer from Werder Bremen last summer, has enjoyed a remarkable debut season, scoring 17 goals and providing three assists in 33 appearances across all competitions. His towering presence, technical ability, and clinical finishing have made him a standout performer, earning him a call-up to the German national team for the UEFA Nations League.
Woltemade’s versatility to operate as a traditional number nine, a number ten, or even out wide has only heightened his appeal. His contributions were instrumental in Stuttgart’s DFB Pokal triumph, including a goal in the final against Arminia Bielefeld, securing their qualification for the Europa League despite a mid-table Bundesliga finish.
Premier League Giants Enter the Race
Arsenal have taken a proactive approach in their pursuit, with reports indicating that the Gunners have already made direct contact with Stuttgart to inquire about Woltemade’s availability. Manager Mikel Arteta is keen to bolster his attacking options, with the club also linked to high-profile names like RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres. However, Woltemade’s relatively modest €50m price tag makes him an attractive alternative, particularly as a long-term investment. His ability to play multiple roles in the final third aligns with Arteta’s tactical vision.
Liverpool, fresh off their Premier League title win, are also in the mix. With speculation surrounding the potential departure of Darwin Nunez, new manager Arne Slot sees Woltemade as a cost-effective option to reinforce the Reds’ attacking line. The 23-year-old’s familiarity with Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz, a reported Liverpool target, from international duty could ease his integration at Anfield.
West Ham United, meanwhile, are looking to address their lack of depth and quality in the final third. The Hammers have been closely monitoring Woltemade’s situation and see him as a potential marquee signing to lead their attack. With a competitive transfer market, West Ham’s interest underscores their ambition to compete with the Premier League’s elite.
European Rivals Add Competition
The race for Woltemade’s signature is far from straightforward, as several European giants have also expressed interest. Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid, Napoli, and Roma have reportedly held initial talks with Stuttgart, making the transfer battle a continent-wide affair. Stuttgart, while keen to retain their star forward for another season to bolster their domestic and European ambitions, acknowledge his rising market value and are open to negotiations for offers in the €45-50m range. With his contract running until 2028, the Bundesliga club holds a strong negotiating position.
A Strategic Signing for the Future
For Arsenal and Liverpool, Woltemade may not be the top priority, with both clubs heavily linked to other high-profile attackers like Sesko, Gyökeres, and Florian Wirtz. However, his relatively affordable valuation and versatile skill set make him an appealing backup option in a challenging market for top-tier strikers. For West Ham, securing Woltemade could represent a statement of intent, providing a focal point for their attack.
As the summer transfer window heats up, Woltemade’s future remains a topic to watch closely. His blend of physicality, technical prowess, and goal-scoring instinct has positioned him as one of the most sought-after young talents in European football. Whether he ends up at the Emirates, Anfield, or elsewhere, the 23-year-old’s next move could define the trajectory of his promising career.