Newcastle United have secured striker Nick Woltemade from Stuttgart on a six-year deal worth up to £69 million, setting a new club transfer record.
The 23-year-old Germany international stands 6ft 6in (1.98m) and eclipses the £63 million spent on Alexander Isak three years ago. Woltemade will wear the number 27 shirt but will not be registered in time for the match against Leeds United on Saturday.
The striker’s arrival comes amid uncertainty over Isak’s future, as the Swedish forward remains intent on joining Liverpool.
“I’m really happy to be at this amazing club,” Woltemade said. “From the first contact, I felt the club really wanted me and had big plans. Leaving Germany is a big step, but everyone has welcomed me and it already feels like family. I know the stadium from watching games on television—it looks amazing and the atmosphere is crazy. I’m excited to play and start scoring goals here.”
Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe welcomed the signing. “We’re delighted to get Nick’s deal over the line quickly. He fits exactly what we were looking for in our attack. He has great technical ability, proven himself in one of Europe’s top leagues, and still has plenty of room to develop here.”
A striking talent beyond his size
Woltemade may appear a battering ram at first glance, but he excels technically. He maneuvers out of tight spaces, links play effectively, and earned the nickname ‘Woltemessi’ from Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.
This skill set convinced Newcastle to break their transfer record and cap a remarkable 12 months for Woltemade. A year ago, he was not a household name in Germany and did not have a guaranteed starting spot at Stuttgart after joining from Werder Bremen for free.
Since then, Woltemade scored 17 goals in 33 games for Stuttgart last season, including the opener in the German Cup final, claiming his first major trophy. He then shone at the Under-21 Euros, finishing as top scorer with six goals as Germany reached the final, where they lost to England in extra time.
Immediate expectations at St James’ Park
Woltemade faces little time to settle, similar to Isak when he joined Newcastle three years ago. The striker possesses all the attributes to reach the next level under Howe and his staff, which Newcastle hope he will achieve quickly.
Given Isak’s uncertain future and the transfer window closing soon, the club acted decisively. Other top European clubs, including Bayern Munich, also expressed interest, showing Woltemade could have been unattainable without swift action.
Newcastle remain active in the transfer market. They are monitoring Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen and Brentford’s Yoane Wissa, though deals would face challenges with limited time before Monday’s 19:00 BST deadline.
The Woltemade transfer demonstrates that Newcastle can move quickly and decisively in the market.
