Prior to the Super Cup, Woltemade's advisors are escalating the strain.
In a surprising turn of events, VfB Stuttgart has firmly refused to transfer striker Nick Woltemade to Bayern Munich this summer. The decision comes after Bayern's offers, reportedly around €60 million or slightly above, failed to meet Stuttgart's valuation of approximately €75 million [2][3].
Despite the rejection, all parties involved seem to expect the transfer to happen in the future. VfB Stuttgart CEO, Alexander Wehrle, has stated that clarity regarding Woltemade's future must be achieved by Saturday, but for the 2025-2026 season, Woltemade will remain a Stuttgart player [2].
The agent of Woltemade, Danny Bachmann, has kept discussions alive by communicating Bayern's interest and their willingness to pay over €60 million. However, Stuttgart has held firm on their price [2]. Bayern, according to Bachmann, has joined forces with Woltemade's side [1].
The new offer from the interested party and player side stands in stark contrast to the aforementioned agreements, especially for a domestic transfer, according to Danny Bachmann. He also stated that the new offer lacks a basis given the aforementioned agreements [1].
The opportunity for Woltemade now exists with Bayern Munich, a German record champion and permanent Champions League participant. Woltemade, a 23-year-old striker, is Bayern's desired candidate [1].
VfB Stuttgart made a clear promise to Woltemade in March 2024 and mid-June for a solution-oriented approach when his next career step is possible [5]. The demand of 75 million euros by VfB Stuttgart's supervisory board is considered unjustified, according to Danny Bachmann, given that Woltemade joined without a transfer fee and has a salary classification in the lower midfield [6].
Interestingly, the supervisory board of VfB Stuttgart has demanded a market-unrelated 75 million euros for Woltemade. So far, VfB Stuttgart has been unwilling to enter negotiations with Bayern officials [7].
This points to a firm stand by Stuttgart for this season, while Bayern remain interested for the near future [1][2][4]. The two clubs will face each other in the Supercup on Saturday.
References:
- Bild
- Sport1
- Kicker
- Stuttgarter Nachrichten
- VfB Stuttgart Official Statement
- Danny Bachmann Statement
- Süddeutsche Zeitung
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