German legend Lothar Matthäus has hit back at criticism from Bayern Munich, defending his valuation of Nick Woltemade after the striker’s €75 million move to Newcastle United this summer.
Speaking to BILD, the 1990 World Cup winner insisted he had accurately predicted the 22-year-old’s transfer value — and said the price Newcastle paid was perfectly in line with the current market.
Bayern Blame Matthäus for Inflating Price
Earlier this year, Matthäus had suggested Woltemade would cost between €80 million and €100 million if Stuttgart decided to sell. At the time, Bayern Munich were leading the race to sign the forward as a potential long-term successor to Harry Kane.
But negotiations collapsed when Bayern refused to meet Stuttgart’s valuation — leaving the door open for Newcastle to swoop in. The Magpies secured the German forward for €75 million plus add-ons, a fee that could eventually rise into Matthäus’ original estimate.
Bayern figures have since suggested the veteran pundit’s public comments “drove up” the player’s price, something Matthäus strongly denies.
“Well, first of all, I’m happy for Woltemade that he’s arrived in the Premier League, arrived so quickly. If you ask me again, I didn’t say €75 million, I said between €80 million and €100 million — €85 to €90 million. So yes, it wasn’t a bad deal.” — Lothar Matthäus, via BILD
“That’s Just the Market”
Matthäus went on to explain that the price reflected fair value given modern transfer economics.
“Age, contract length, and demand — those are the factors. I don’t set the prices, and neither does Bayern alone. These sums aren’t pulled out of thin air; it’s simply a fair market price.” — Lothar Matthäus
The former Bayern captain also pointed out that the German champions have paid similar sums for other players, referencing their €70 – 75 million outlay for winger Díaz earlier this year.
Woltemade Repaying the Faith
For Newcastle, Woltemade’s early form suggests the investment is already paying off. The young striker has quickly adapted to the Premier League’s pace and physicality, showing flashes of the technical and aerial prowess that made him one of the Bundesliga’s most coveted talents.
| Stat (2025/26) | Nick Woltemade |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 11 |
| Goals | 6 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Shots per game | 2.2 |
| Big chances missed | 4 |
| Pass accuracy | 80 % |
source: Sofascore match data – 31 October 2025
Those numbers underline Woltemade’s quick adaptation to English football. His six goals in eleven matches include decisive strikes against Brentford and Fulham, while his movement and pressing have earned praise from Eddie Howe, who has integrated him seamlessly into Newcastle’s dynamic front line.
Our View: Matthäus Has a Point
In our view, Matthäus’ defence holds weight. The modern transfer market rarely rewards restraint, and €75 million for a 22-year-old international striker with elite potential now seems relatively standard.
If Woltemade maintains his current scoring rate, that valuation could soon look like good business for Newcastle — and vindication for Matthäus’ much-debated prediction.
Key Insights
- Matthäus predicted €80 – 100 million for Woltemade months before his Newcastle move.
- Bayern Munich accused him of inflating the price; he calls it “fair market value.”
- Newcastle paid €75 million plus add-ons for the 22-year-old striker.
- Woltemade has 6 goals in 11 matches to start the 2025/26 season.
- Matthäus insists the market, not pundits, sets player prices.
What’s Next
Woltemade is expected to start for Newcastle in their Premier League clash with West Ham on 2 November, aiming to extend his scoring streak and continue justifying that headline-making transfer fee.
👉 Newcastle fans — has Woltemade already proven €75 million was a bargain?
By John William — FootballPlace.co.uk
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *