Suraj Radia
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal
© IMAGO
A new name has reportedly emerged in Arsenal’s pursuit of a striker, with Mikel Areta still aiming to find the perfect solution to his search for a number nine this summer.
While Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko are at the top of Arsenal’s preferred targets to strengthen up front, both players will likely have a price tag in excess of €60 million, which could prove to be a stumbling block given Arteta’s desire to strengthen in multiple areas this summer.
The search for a more affordable target has led Arsenal to Nick Woltemade, who scored 12 goals in 28 Bundesliga appearances for Stuttgart this season, of which just 17 were starts.
The 23-year-old stands at 6 foot 6 inches tall and his combination of height, technique and finishing ability has attracted interest from a number of clubs around Europe, according to CaughtOffside" href="https://www.caughtoffside.com/2025/05/27/exclusive-arsenal-contact-17-goal-striker/" target="_blank">CaughtOffside.
It is claimed that Arsenal and Napoli have already made contact with Stuttgart to inquire about Woltemade’s availability, while Atletico Madrid and West Ham are also said to be monitoring the situation.
Stuttgart would be open to negotiations if an offer of €45-50m was tabled despite their desire to keep hold of a player who has three years remaining on his contract.
Woltemade growing into intriguing prospect for club and country
Woltemade finished the season with eight goals in his final 14 appearances, including four in the last four games of Stuttgart’s campaign and in their DfB Pokal final win over Arminia Bielefeld.
The giant striker’s form has seen him called up to the Germany squad for the first time for the upcoming Nations League finals and a good display at international level could further enhance his growing reputation.
Nick Woltemade has been in good form this season.
© IMAGO - Nick Woltemade has been in good form this season.
While this season is the first time Woltemade has provided a notable impact in the top flight, his stature and ability to play as a number ten or out wide could make him an attractive target to many clubs.
Arsenal would only target Woltemade if a deal for Gyokeres or Sesko does not manifest, meaning the Stuttgart man may become a target later in the window as the summer progresses.
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