Niclas Füllkrug has reportedly agreed personal terms with Venezia, although a difference in valuation is holding up the West Ham striker’s proposed return to Serie A.
The 33-year-old is understood to be open to the move after Venezia made a formal approach, but the Italian club have yet to meet West Ham’s demands.
It leaves Füllkrug’s future unresolved one week before Nuno Espírito Santo’s side begin their Championship campaign against Burnley.
Claret & Hugh, citing Bild, report that Venezia have reached an agreement with Füllkrug, with negotiations between the clubs now the main obstacle.
Niclas Füllkrug transfer held up by valuation
West Ham signed Füllkrug from Borussia Dortmund for £27million in August 2024, handing the Germany international a four-year contract.
His first season in east London was disrupted by injuries before he joined AC Milan on loan in January.
Milan had an option to make the move permanent but did not take it up, leaving Füllkrug to return to West Ham this summer.
Venezia’s interest has been developing for several months. ReadWestHam reported in May that the Italian side were considering a move as his spell at Milan neared its conclusion.
The latest report suggests the player’s side of the deal is no longer the issue.
West Ham must instead decide whether to lower their asking price or wait for Venezia to improve their offer.
Füllkrug does not appear to be central to Nuno’s plans. Taty Castellanos has led the attack during pre-season, while West Ham are continuing to look at further additions up front.
Moving Füllkrug on would also create additional room in the squad and reduce the wage bill.
West Ham, though, will want to avoid accepting an unnecessarily low fee for a player who remains under contract until 2028.
With Füllkrug willing to make the move, the next stage will depend on whether the two clubs can find common ground over his valuation.
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