Niclas Fullkrug to AC Milan is picking up pace, and West Ham will need to have their replacement ready for Nuno Espirito Santo in January.

AC Milan are plotting a loan move for Fullkrug as the German’s story at E20 finally looks to be coming to an end.

Fullkrug has failed at West Ham since arriving during last year’s summer transfer window, and after multiple injuries and lacklustre performances, the move looks best for all parties.

Recent reports have suggested that Nuno is a fan of Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee, but the latest AC Milan update will surely come as a blow to the Irons.

AC Milan ‘dream’ of West Ham target Joshua Zirkzee

West Ham still face a threat of relegation this season and are going to need new additions to bolster Nuno‘s squad.

The last thing that the Hammers need is for their transfer targets to be stolen right in front of them, but that may be happening in the case of Zirkzee.

According to Italian outlet La Gazzetta dello Sport, Milan have made contact with Zirkzee’s entourage in recent weeks and reportedly “dream” of his signing.

There is simply no way that the Hammers will be able to compete with the Italian giants when considering all the evident factors.

Zirkzee found his feet in Serie A before his big-money move to Man United in 2024, and will most likely favour a move back to Italy in hopes of regaining his own form.

AC Milan is Zirkzee’s best option for World Cup hopes

There’s no doubt about it: Zirkzee would be a massive upgrade on Fullkrug, and the Hammers may have even been able to secure a loan deal for the striker.

The Dutchman has shown great link-up play since arriving in England, but his issue has been finding the back of the net.

GamesGoalsAssistsZirkzee’s record in the Serie A during the 2023-24 season with BolognaLike Fullkrug, Zirkzee was also a deadly finisher before moving to the Premier League, which is why he may prefer heading back to Italy over a switch to West Ham in January.

With the 2026 World Cup around the corner, Zirkzee will want to get back to goal-scoring ways for a chance of playing for the Netherlands at the prestigious tournament.

Nuno and West Ham may have to look for other targets, with deals expected to accelerate in the coming weeks.

Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest West Ham United news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account – @westhamzone247