Newcastle United were desperately in need of a new striker after Alexander Isak went on strike and Callum Wilson left the club.
After playing Anthony Gordon upfront in a makeshift role for a couple of games, Newcastle management decided to splash the cash on Stuttgart star Nick Woltemade, who has now become the record signing at £69m.
The 23-year-old forward, who ran riot in the U21 European Championships earlier this year is expected to achieve big things at the Tyneside outfit in the Premier League.
Howe was ecstatic with the Magpies finally securing a proper striker to play upfront as he was only left with William Osula after Gordon received marching orders against Liverpool in the last game.
“We’re delighted to get Nick’s signing over the line so quickly," Howe told Newcastle United media after Woltemade's signing. "He fits the profile for exactly what we have been looking to add to our attacking options.
Howe also shared how the German forward is capable of playing in different positions and also in different roles with his dribbling and link-up abilities.
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“He’s strong in a lot of areas - he has great technical ability and has proven himself to be a real threat in one of Europe’s top leagues - but he’s also still at an age where he has plenty of room to develop and grow here.
“Nick is a great character too and we’re really pleased to welcome him to the group.”
People at St. James Park including Howe believe that Woltemade could be the ideal successor for Isak, who is trying to force his way out to Liverpool.
What did Nick Woltemade say after being presented as a Newcastle United player?
Woltemade finished with 17 goals last season for Stuttgart across all competitions, which was his breakthrough year in the Bundesliga.
His heroics in the DFB Pokal saw Stuttgart win the cup tournament beating Arminia Bielefield in the final, where he scored the first goal in a 4-2 win.
Woltemade is considered the next big thing in German football and hence Bayern Munich also pushed for his signature and despite his interest in the move, the Bavarians never managed to match Stuttgart's lofty demands.
However, the Germany international looked delighted after being presented as Newcastle United player as he only had good things to say about the club and the fans.
“I’m really happy to be at this amazing club. From the first contact, I felt like the club really wanted me and had big plans for me," Woltemade stated.
“It’s a big step in my life to leave Germany but everybody has welcomed me so well and it already feels like family. I have a really good feeling from speaking to the head coach that this is the right place for me to find my best level.
“I know the stadium from watching games on television - it looks amazing and I know the atmosphere is crazy. I’m really excited to play and start scoring goals here.”
The youngster will have a big expectation on his shoulders especially people will compare him with his predecessor, Isak at Newcastle United.
He is not expected to play any role in Newcastle United's away trip to Leeds United but will make his debut for the club after the international break against Wolves next month.
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