Eyebrows were raised when Newcastle United forward Nick Woltemade was linked with Borussia Dortmund earlier this week.
Borussia Dortmund managing director Lars Ricken has insisted there is “no truth” in a potential move for Nick Woltemade.
News broke yesterday that the Bundesliga giants could make a loan swoop for the striker this summer. Newcastle United stumped up a club-record £69million to sign Woltemade less than 12 months ago.
German media were immediately incensed as Toon chiefs gazumped Bayern Munich to snatch one of their country’s top talents. Woltemade enjoyed a stellar start at St James’ Park - scoring four goals in five Premier League games - but his form has since nosedived.
Nick Woltemade woes at Newcastle United
Eddie Howe has preferred Anthony Gordon up front in recent months, with Woltemade shifted into midfield. This has resulted in the 6ft 6in forward not scoring a top-flight goal since December.
With the World Cup approaching, a debate has emerged in Germany about Newcastle playing Woltemade in midfield. National team coach Julian Nagelsmann has fired several thinly veiled swipes at the position change.
Borussia Dortmund rubbish Nick Woltemade claims
Dortmund chief Ricken has played down suggestions they will try to sign Woltemade. When asked by Sport Bild, he responded: “That’s the first I’ve heard of it. (There is) no truth to it.”
The reports linking Woltemade with Dortmund were tied to their striker, Serhou Guirassy, potentially leaving the club. On those claims, Ricken added: “We hear every transfer window that he (Guirassy) might leave - and he’s still here.
“It’s my wish and the wish of (sporting director) Ole (Book) and Niko Kovac (head coach) that Serhou remains with us this summer. He feels extremely comfortable at the club, and there is no intention to let him go.”
Nick Woltemade fires back
Speaking last week, Woltemade hit out at those focusing on his goalscoring return due to the recent midfield switch. The Toon ace admitted he prefers to play up front but has been able to “expand his repertoire” under Howe.
“It bothers me,” Woltemade said when asked about the criticism. “If someone claims that I’m in a slump, I’d argue that this person doesn’t watch many Newcastle games.
“I know people associate me with goals, but you can’t compare a striker’s tally with that of a midfielder playing 50, 60, 70 metres from the opponent’s goal. I’m currently a completely different Nick Woltemade than I was at the start of the season.
“Right now, I should be judged by how I handle duels or secure space. Of course, I score far fewer goals now. But I’m completely relaxed. I don’t mind expanding my repertoire. And I’m convinced that, in the long run, it will make me stronger if I learn to navigate phases like this.”
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