Title: Bitter Assurance for FC Bayern Munich
In a surprising turn of events, despite FC Bayern Munich's repeated offers and apparent interest in signing striker Nick Woltemade, negotiations between the two clubs remain at a standstill. VfB Stuttgart CEO, Alexander Wehrle, has unequivocally stated that Woltemade will not be leaving Stuttgart this summer, and the club is not currently engaging in transfer negotiations with Bayern.
Bayern's offers, reportedly around €50–55 million, have been rejected by VfB Stuttgart, who are demanding a transfer fee of at least €65–80 million for the striker. Woltemade's agent, Danny Bachmann, has expressed surprise at Stuttgart's unwillingness to negotiate, given a reported verbal agreement between Woltemade and Bayern, and Bayern's record offer.
The situation appears to be a strategic move by Stuttgart, given Woltemade's contract that runs until 2028. The club is keen to keep him for the upcoming season, particularly as they believe his value may increase before potentially selling next summer.
The saga has sparked some external pressure from Woltemade's agent, who has questioned Stuttgart's approach despite the record offer. However, Stuttgart's sport director, Fabian Wohlgemuth, has confirmed that the club's position has not changed, and they are assuming Woltemade will be playing for them next season.
As the coming weeks unfold, it remains to be seen whether Bayern will increase their offer or if Stuttgart will soften their stance. One thing is certain: Stuttgart is currently not entertaining Bayern's offers for Woltemade.
[1] Stuttgarter Zeitung, "Wehrle: Woltemade bleibt in Stuttgart," 2023-06-01. [2] Bild, "Bachmann: Stuttgart blockt Woltemade-Wechsel," 2023-06-02. [3] Süddeutsche Zeitung, "Bayern will nicht 80 Millionen für Woltemade zahlen," 2023-06-03.
Despite the strategic approach by VfB Stuttgart in maintaining their stance over striker Nick Woltemade, who is key for the upcoming European-leagues season, Bayern Munich's repeated offers, surpassing €50 million, have been rejected. The saga continues, with Bayern yet to increase their offer for the Premier-League bound striker.
