Niclas Fullkrug encouraged to leave Borussia Dortmund by Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann - but Bundesliga side reluctant to sell as West Ham fall short of asking price

According to Sky Germany, the Hammers have entered the race to sign Fullkrug, and the 31-year-old forward now seems open to the idea of joining the Premier League side. West Ham have proposed a three-year deal with an option for a fourth year. This would allow Fullkrug, to potentially extend his career longer at West Ham than at Dortmund, where his current contract runs until 2026. West Ham's contract includes a salary comparable to his earnings at Dortmund, around €2.5 million (£2.1m/$2.7m) net per year.

It has been reported that Fullkrug was initially hesitant to respond to West Ham's offer as it would mean giving up on Champions League football. However, the allure of playing in the Premier League, coupled with the long-term contract and the promise of a starting role, has forced him to give a second thought. The striker had harboured hopes of a move to AC Milan, but the Italian club was unable to meet the financial demands for a permanent transfer and subsequently withdrew from the negotiations. This development has left West Ham as the frontrunner for his signature.

The Sky report also mentions that Fullkrug had reached out to Germany's coaching team, including Julian Nagelsmann, Sandro Wagner, and Benjamin Gluck. They have reportedly advised him to make the move to London, emphasizing the importance of regular minutes in preparation for the 2026 World Cup.

Dortmund are reluctant to part with Füllkrug, as they plan to rely on two top strikers - the other one being Serhou Guirassy. However, they have set a price tag of €30m (£25m/$33m) on the player and will be ready to offload him if any suitor matches that amount.

It is believed that West Ham have already submitted an offer of approximately €25m (£21m/$27m), including bonuses. While this offer is below Dortmund's asking price, it puts pressure on BVB bosses Sebastian Kehl and Lars Ricken to ponder over it. If Dortmund insist on the €30m, West Ham may withdraw and focus on signing 20-year-old striker Jhon Duran from Aston Villa.

A decision on Fullkrug's future could be made soon, possibly as early as Thursday evening, as West Ham prepare to engage in further talks with Dortmund. Encouraged by Nagelsmann and enticed by a lucrative contract, Fullkrug must weigh the benefits of playing in the Premier League against the sacrifices of leaving Dortmund and the Champions League. As negotiations continue, it remains to be seen where Fullkrug ends up playing next season.