Nick Woltemade’s arrival at Newcastle United was one of the most dramatic late-window twists of the summer, yet the striker insists his decision required very little hesitation. Speaking to Stern, the €80m signing — potentially rising beyond €90m — reflected on the whirlwind period that saw him move from VfB Stuttgart to St James’ Park as Alexander Isak’s sudden replacement.
The deal surprised many across Germany, especially after Bayern Munich had spent months positioning Woltemade as a long-term successor to Harry Kane. Reports at the time suggested the 2.0-metre forward favoured Bayern and expected a move eventually, but the Bundesliga champions refused to meet Stuttgart’s valuation. Newcastle acted decisively, and within 48 hours the transfer was complete.
Woltemade admits the turnaround was fast but says the choice itself was simple. “I had two days of reflection. But I didn’t have to think long anyway, because Newcastle United are a great club playing in the strongest league in the world. My goal has always been to compete with the best.”
Howe’s influence and a seamless transition
The 23-year-old has previously credited Eddie Howe as the decisive factor in convincing him to choose Newcastle over Bayern. Having followed Newcastle closely this season, the most striking element is how quickly Woltemade has adapted to the Premier League’s rhythm — a league that historically demands months rather than weeks of adjustment for young forwards.
Several German outlets suggested he viewed the move as a risk. Instead, the early evidence shows a striker thriving under top-level coaching and a tactical system built around mobility and verticality. Although some voices in Germany still insist Bayern will revisit their interest, Woltemade’s trajectory in the North East suggests he is building something substantial already.
Numbers that underline his early impact
| Stat (2025/26) | Nick Woltemade |
|---|---|
| Appearances (Premier League) | 11 |
| Goals | 5 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Minutes Played | 882 |
source: sofascore match data – 4 December 2025
His scoring rate — a goal roughly every 176 minutes — reflects growing confidence, but it’s his chemistry with the fanbase that has accelerated fastest. Supporters have warmed to his aggressive pressing, physical presence and personality, creating the kind of bond that often takes years for a new striker to establish.
A decision paying off for all sides
In our view, the move looks mutually beneficial. Newcastle needed a swift, high-ceiling successor after Isak’s exit, and Woltemade wanted a stage worthy of his ambitions. Although some questioned whether he was ready for the Premier League jump, his early numbers and composure suggest otherwise. A nuance worth noting: his development curve may actually be steeper in England, where intensity and aerial duels mirror the aspects of his game that remain untapped.
Key insights
- Woltemade joined Newcastle in a rapid €80–90m deal after Bayern declined to meet Stuttgart’s price.
- The striker says he “didn’t have to think long” about the move.
- Eddie Howe played a key role in convincing him to join.
- He has 5 goals and 1 assist in his first 11 Premier League appearances.
- Newcastle fans have embraced him quickly.
What’s Next?
Newcastle return to Premier League action this weekend at St James’ Park against Burnley, where Woltemade is expected to continue leading the line as Howe’s first-choice striker. With confidence building and the home crowd firmly behind him, the German forward has the opportunity to extend his strong early-season form and further justify the club’s bold investment.
👉 Is Nick Woltemade already Newcastle’s most important signing since Bruno Guimarães?
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