AC Milan has finalized an agreement with West Ham United for the loan transfer of Niclas Fullkrug.
The Rossoneri will bring the 32-year-old striker on a free loan for the remainder of the season, covering his entire salary. The deal also includes an option for Milan to purchase him in the summer.
Advertisement
West Ham has granted its final approval, paving the way for the transfer after swift negotiations between the clubs in recent days.
Fullkrug is expected to arrive in Milan later today and will undergo medical examinations once all administrative details are finalized.
Thanks to a special exemption granted by the Italian Football Federation, Milan can register the striker immediately when the winter transfer window opens.
This decision allows Massimiliano Allegri to include Fullkrug in the squad for the Serie A match against Cagliari on January 2, coinciding with the window’s opening.
Advertisement
The FIGC exemption is specific to the Cagliari-Milan fixture and was approved to ensure neither club is disadvantaged compared to the rest of the league, who start their games from January 3 onward.
Milan’s urgency for a striker stems from their need for more attacking options, with Allegri looking to add a player who brings different physical and tactical attributes.
Fullkrug embodies that profile as a traditional center-forward, a role that Milan’s squad has lacked during pivotal moments this season.
He had a breakout season in the Bundesliga in 2021-22, scoring 19 goals as Werder Bremen achieved promotion, followed by another successful season in the top flight.
Advertisement
His impressive performances led to a transfer to Borussia Dortmund, where he scored 15 goals and provided 10 assists across all competitions.
Fullkrug joined West Ham United from Dortmund in August 2024, but struggled to find consistent form in the Premier League.
Injuries and fitness problems hindered his contributions, resulting in only three goals and two assists during his stint in London.
The German international has also seen a decline in his national team prospects, having not been called up since September.
If this transfer proves beneficial, Milan will have the option to make the move permanent in the summer.