Why Newcastle spent club record fee to sign Nick Woltemade?

Vishal Bhawani

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Why Newcastle spent club record fee to sign Nick Woltemade? image

Newcastle United have made a statement in the transfer market. The club confirmed the record signing of Nick Woltemade from Stuttgart for a fee of around £69m.

The German striker, standing at 6’6, is set to lead the line at St. James’ Park.

It is a move that raises eyebrows but also answers questions. Newcastle reportedly see Woltemade as the right replacement should Alexander Isak leave for Liverpool.

The Swedish forward has been linked with Anfield all summer. Without a reliable No.9, Eddie Howe had even used Anthony Gordon as a makeshift striker.

That experiment, as fans would say, was more “winging it” than winning it.

Woltemade’s rise has been remarkable. From struggling at Werder Bremen to lifting the DFB Pokal with Stuttgart, he has proved himself as a goalscorer and a hard worker.

Scoring 17 goals in 33 games last season, he showed why Europe’s top clubs were circling. Bayern Munich were keen, but Newcastle moved quicker. Apparently, that urgency sealed the deal.

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Nick Woltemade’s game rests on three standout strengths. First, his unique blend of height and technique makes him a nightmare for defenders – a 6’6 striker with Messi-esque feet is a rare package.

Second, his versatility and link-up play allow him to drop deep as a creator or operate as a classic No.9, giving managers tactical flexibility.

Third, his work rate and pressing set him apart from many target men; he’s not just a finisher but also a tireless worker who helps win back possession. This mix explains why Newcastle have splashed big to secure him.

What Nick Woltemade said after signing Newcastle contract?

The striker himself was delighted. “I’m really happy to be at this amazing club,” Woltemade said.

“From the first contact, I felt like the club really wanted me and had big plans for me. It already feels like family. 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.”

Head coach Eddie Howe also welcomed the signing. “He fits the profile for exactly what we have been looking to add to our attacking options,” Howe explained. “He has great technical ability, and he’s still at an age where he has plenty of room to develop.”

For Newcastle, this deal is not just about today but tomorrow. If Isak does leave, they have a ready-made replacement.

If he stays, Howe suddenly has two strikers with different strengths. Either way, St. James’ Park looks set for some towering headers and maybe a few cheeky nutmegs too.

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Vishal Bhawani

Vishal Bhawani is a sub-editor for the Affiliate Content team and a writer and sub-editor for the Football Wires team at The Sporting News. Based in Indore, India, he holds a Diploma in Operations and Management from Maharashtra University.

Before joining TSN in May 2024, Vishal contributed to Football Express and Six Sports and ran his own blog, Anfield Home, as a passionate Liverpool fan. An avid traveler, he follows multiple sports, including cricket, soccer, and tennis.