VfB persists in believing that Woltemade will stay onboard
VfB Stuttgart Stands Firm on Nick Woltemade Amidst Bayern Munich Interest
VfB Stuttgart has made it clear that star striker Nick Woltemade will not be leaving the club any time soon. The German football club's CEO, Alexander Wehrle, has categorically ruled out any negotiations with Bayern Munich, emphasizing Woltemade's importance for the upcoming season [1].
Woltemade had a standout 2024/25 season, scoring 12 Bundesliga goals and playing crucial roles in cup success and international youth tournaments, significantly boosting his value at Stuttgart [1]. Wehrle expressed strong confidence in Woltemade's role at the club and the intention to retain him for their upcoming campaign, including the high-profile DFL-Supercup match against Bayern Munich on August 16 [1].
Bayern Munich has shown interest in Woltemade, reportedly making two offers, the latest bid being around €55 million. However, Stuttgart has rejected these offers and may set a transfer deadline, indicating they won't engage unless the offer significantly increases, reportedly by another €10 million or more [2]. The difference between Bayern's bid and Stuttgart’s valuation remains a barrier, with Stuttgart implying negotiations won't proceed without a substantially improved offer [2].
Stuttgart's resolute stance is also influenced by Woltemade's long-term contract, which extends until June 2028, giving them a solid contractual position to resist Bayern's bids [1]. The club is also mindful of securing a replacement before the transfer window closes, making a timely resolution critical [2].
Meanwhile, Enzo Millot, another transfer candidate for Atlético Madrid, is currently away from the club. Millot was excused for the test against Celta Vigo on Saturday and is reportedly at Tegernsee [3]. Stuttgart's sporting director, Fabian Wohlgemuth, has stated that they are giving Millot time to make the right decision regarding his transfer [3].
Woltemade returned to Stuttgart's training camp in Rottach-Egern after his vacation, which was necessitated by his appearances at the Nations League final tournament and the U21 European Championship. Upon his arrival, he stopped for an autograph and photo with fans [4]. Woltemade participated in a first training session with his teammates in heavy rain and completed performance diagnostics and fitness tests on Saturday [5].
As of now, there has been no new movement in the Woltemade case, and no personal meeting between VfB Stuttgart's club decision-makers and Bayern Munich's Uli Hoeneß or Max Eberl has been scheduled [6].
References:
- Stuttgarter Nachrichten
- Sports Bild
- Kicker
- Stuttgarter Zeitung
- Süddeutsche Zeitung
- Bild
Despite Bayern Munich's considerable interest in Nick Woltemade, VfB Stuttgart remains steadfast in keeping their star striker, emphasizing his importance for the upcoming European-league campaigns and their high-profile matches against Bayern Munich.The club's rejection of Bayern's latest offer of €55 million suggests a substantial increase would be necessary for negotiations to progress, given Woltemade's long-term contract extending until 2028.
