Niclas Fullkrug agrees personal terms with Venezia, transfer stalled by West Ham
Niclas Fullkrug has been frozen out at West Ham United ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, with the East London club reportedly excluding him from their plans and not even allocating him a squad number.
According to a report from BILD, relayed by Sport Witness, Venezia are eager to strengthen their attacking options during the summer transfer window and have identified the out-of-favour German striker as a key target.
The report claims Fullkrug had a move to the Italian side virtually arranged and was keen to make the switch to Venice despite being required to accept a significant wage reduction. The 33-year-old is said to have already agreed personal terms with Venezia, but the transfer hit a roadblock after the Serie A newcomers considered West Ham’s asking price too high.
Fullkrug’s difficult spell at West Ham
Fullkrug’s fortunes have declined sharply since his €30 million move from Borussia Dortmund to West Ham in August 2024. Arriving with high expectations following a successful stint in Germany, the experienced forward struggled to establish himself in East London.
A series of injury setbacks disrupted much of his first season and a half at the club before he secured a loan move to AC Milan earlier this year in search of regular football.
However, his struggles continued in Italy. Fullkrug found the net just once in 20 appearances across all competitions, managing only 648 minutes of action. As a result, AC Milan opted against activating their purchase option, sending him back to West Ham at the end of the 2025/26 season.
Could Serie A still be his next destination?
Interest from Italy has remained strong despite his recent difficulties. Fiorentina were linked with a move earlier this year, while Lazio have also been credited with an interest in the veteran striker.
Now Venezia have emerged as the latest club exploring a deal. Although the newly promoted Serie A side already possess several striking options, head coach Giovanni Stroppa is believed to be seeking greater experience in his squad.
Talks between Venezia and Fullkrug have already produced an agreement on personal terms, but unless West Ham lower their valuation, the proposed transfer is likely to remain on hold.
