Newcastle United are expected to go into the transfer market to sign a striker next summer amid uncertainty over Nick Woltemade
Nick Woltemade during a Newcastle United game
Newcastle United agreed a lengthy contract for Nick Woltemade when he moved to the club(Image: Icon Sport via Getty Images)
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Newcastle United know they have a guarantee when it comes to Nick Woltemade, amid ongoing speculation regarding his future at St. James' Park. The German has come under pressure in recent weeks following his performances, but has been shifted into a deeper midfield role by Eddie Howe.
The 24-year-old made a bright start to life at Newcastle, leading the line in his preferred striker position, but there were concerns over his tendancy to drop deep and not getting in the box enough.
It's seen Howe opt for a tactical reshuffle, with Anthony Gordon moving up front and Woltemade moving to the number ten position.
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However, the German's lack of goals has seen speculation surface over a move back to his native country. Bayern Munich were keen on signing the big striker before his move to St. James' Park and have been vocal about the fee Newcastle paid to secure his services.
The Toon splashed out a club-record fee of £69million on Woltemade, attempting to plug the gap left by Alexander Isak's move to Liverpool.
Nick Woltemade before a Newcastle United game
Newcastle United forward Nick Woltemade has struggled(Image: News Images/NurPhoto)
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Nevertheless, it's clear Isak and Woltemade are two different players, with different skillsets and attributes. The former suited Howe's style of play down to the ground, while the young German is still getting to grips with the Premier League.
Woltemade was linked with a move to Dorussia Dortmund in recent days as a replacement for striker Serhou Guirassy, though managing director for sport Lars Ricken rubbished that speculation.
Speaking to Sport Bild, he responded: "That’s the first I’ve heard of it. (There is) no truth to it. 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."
One of the biggest gripes Newcastle supporters have had in years gone by, is their poor track record when it comes to selling players.
Though there's no clear indication they'll sell Woltemade this summer, he signed a six-year deal with the Magpies - ensuring his value remains.
Given his profile and that he is still only just 24-years-old, as an asset his value remains high.
According to CIES Football Observatory, Woltemade is valued in the region of €100m-€117m [£87m-£102m].
If Newcastle are able to sell in Woltemade for that sort of transfer fee, they would not only recoup money from their initial investment, but bank around £30m in profit.
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