Revealed: How Vincent Kompany's 'secret' video call helped convince Nick Woltemade to reject Chelsea and Napoli for Bayern Munich before Stuttgart warned against 'absolutely unrealistic' transfer

New details have emerged about Bayern's failed attempts to sign striker Woltemade from Stuttgart. According to a report from Sport Bild, Bayern sporting director Max Eberl initially approached Woltemade in mid-June without the knowledge of Stuttgart. The striker and his advisor Danny Bachmann had clearly signalled to Eberl that they were seeking a move to Munich.

This was followed by a video call between Woltemade and Bayern head coach Vincent Kompany, in which the Belgian convinced him even more of a switch to the Allianz Arena. Woltemade was also disappointed by the new contract offer that Stuttgart made him shortly afterwards, which further strengthened his desire for a change of scenery.

At the end of June, Eberl met with agent Bachmann in person for the first time. Meanwhile, Die Schwaben remained unaware of Bayern's attempts to sign their rising star. It was only when Bild reported on an alleged agreement between Woltemade and the German record champions that Stuttgart learned of the previously secret negotiations. Those responsible at Stuttgart were understandably annoyed by Eberl's actions, which is why he was only to play a minor role in the transfer poker from then on.

Die Roten's pursuit of Woltemade was anything but smooth, despite the player's clear desire to join the Bundesliga holder. While Bayern CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen led negotiations, reports suggest Woltemade had already turned down offers from Chelsea and Napoli in late June, firmly set on a move to Munich.

However, Bayern's first official bid didn’t arrive until July 10. Their initial offer of €40 million (£34m/$47m) plus €5m in bonuses was swiftly rejected by Stuttgart. According to Sport Bild, Stuttgart responded via email, stating: “Thank you for your proposal. The difference between your offer and our expectations is so fundamental that we must consider the chances of reaching an agreement to be absolutely unrealistic… For this reason, we would like to end the talks. We ask you to refrain from further attempts to sign him.”

Still, Bayern persisted. On July 15, they returned with an improved offer — €50 million (£43m/$58m) plus €5m in bonuses, including a 10% sell-on clause. Stuttgart, however, remained firm, once again turning down the proposal and declining to enter into personal discussions. They remained adamant on not entertaining any offers below €65 million (£56m/$75m).

As per Sport Bild, the club’s response made their stance clear: “Our approach of not engaging in personal talks is based on the fact that we are too far apart. Your latest offer does not change that… We ask you to respect our position on this matter.”

After publicly voicing frustration with Stuttgart, Woltemade’s agent Bachmann reignited talks in earlier this month, convincing Dreesen and Stuttgart CEO Alexander Wehrle to resume negotiations. In a final push, Woltemade and his agent offered to waive their 10 per cent commission, and Bayern raised their bid to €55 million (£47m/$64m). However, Stuttgart stood firm on their €75m (£65m/$87m) valuation. A 20-minute call on August 13 ended without progress. Despite hopes for a late breakthrough, the DFL-Supercup clash on August 16 confirmed the transfer was off. 

"The file is closed. It’s done and dusted," Wehrle told Sky, ending Bayern's pursuit.

The Bavarians will begin their league title defence this weekend, when they welcome RB Leipzig at the Allianz Arena on Friday, August 22. 

Additional reporting by Oliver Maywurm.