Niclas Füllkrug's AC Milan Future Decided: Return to West Ham, Schalke 04 Link Emerges

Niclas Füllkrug's spell at AC Milan has not been particularly successful. Reports now indicate that clarity has emerged regarding the Rossoneri's plans for the German striker.

Milan is reportedly opting not to activate the relatively affordable purchase option for the 33-year-old, valued between five and ten million Euros. Consequently, Füllkrug is expected to return to West Ham United after the season, where he remains under contract until 2028.

However, the German international's future also appears uncertain at the relegation-threatened Hammers. Since his 2024 transfer from Borussia Dortmund to London, he has made only 29 appearances for the Premier League club, partly due to injury, scoring three goals and providing two assists.

A move to Milan was hoped to revitalize his career and secure a World Cup spot, but Füllkrug's performance in the Italian capital has also been underwhelming. Coach Massimiliano Allegri has primarily utilized him as a substitute, although he recently featured in the starting lineup for two consecutive matches.

The German striker has managed only one goal thus far – an insufficient return to impress national coach Julian Nagelsmann. Füllkrug was not included in the squad for the final warm-up matches before the World Cup squad announcement, putting his participation in the summer tournament at significant risk. His last international appearance was in summer 2025, in the Nations League third-place play-off against France.

Füllkrug Labelled a 'Hopeless Case' at Milan Amid Guirassy Rumors

Milan's management apparently finds Füllkrug's offensive contributions inadequate for long-term planning. Recent reports suggest that Milan intends to pursue Borussia Dortmund striker Serhou Guirassy this summer.

Football expert Andrea Longoni, in his column, referred to Füllkrug and former RB Leipzig player Christopher Nkunku (signed from Chelsea for a substantial fee before the season) as "two hopeless cases" in Milan's attack. Longoni's assessment of Füllkrug was direct: "He certainly won't stay. While he didn't cost a transfer fee (likely referring to the loan), one would have expected a bit more."

Schalke 04 Eyeing Füllkrug as Potential Dzeko Replacement?

Füllkrug's post-season future is now more uncertain than ever. According to reports, an unexpected path might lead to Schalke 04, with contact reportedly established between the striker and the Royal Blues.

Should Schalke 04 achieve promotion back to the Bundesliga, Füllkrug would be considered a highly interesting option for the club. This is partly due to the unresolved future of Edin Dzeko beyond the current season. The star striker, currently sidelined with a shoulder injury, has been highly effective since his winter transfer, netting six goals and providing three assists in eight second-division matches. However, his contract expires at the end of the season.

If promotion is secured, the 40-year-old might consider retiring after the summer World Cup. Dzeko, who sensationally led Bosnia & Herzegovina past Italy in the playoffs, is set to experience another World Cup finals with his national team after 2014.