Transfers
Füllkrug’s imminent homecoming highlights Werder’s midfield overhaul
Niclas Füllkrug, the 33‑year‑old Hanover native, is poised to rejoin Werder Bremen, with media reports confirming the move as of 17 August 2026 and a medical check scheduled for Tuesday at his youth club. The announcement contrasts his stalled spell abroad with a hopeful new chapter back at the Osterdeich.
According to multiple media outlets, the return is imminent and will be formalised after the Tuesday medical. The report, dated 17 August 2026, underscores the club’s urgency to secure the striker before the summer window closes.
Loan spells abroad
On Monday evening, both Sky and highlighted the narrative of the “lost son” returning to Werder’s historic ground, the Osterdeich. Their coverage framed the move as a homecoming for a player who struggled to find form outside Germany.
Füllkrug is set to join Werder on a loan from Premier League relegated side West Ham United. The arrangement follows his recent loan to AC Milan, where the London club sent the former international to Italy in the past half‑year.
During his stint with the Serie A side, Füllkrug managed only one goal in 20 appearances, falling short of the output needed for a place in Germany’s World Cup squad for the tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
His career began fourteen years ago at Werder, where he later returned from 2019 to 2023, earning national team caps. After a season with Borussia Dortmund, he moved to England but failed to cement a regular spot.
Werder’s squad rebuild
Werder now faces a midfield void after the departure of key player Romano Schmid, who is heading to Serie A. To fill the gap, the club has secured Reis on a free transfer and announced the signing of Schlager from Red Bull Salzburg as its sixth new addition.
The club’s 65‑year‑old president will not stand for re‑election at the November members’ assembly, citing dwindling energy reserves, adding another layer of transition for the Bremen side.