Niclas Fullkrug and his agents have informed West Ham of the striker’s intention to leave in the January transfer window.

Fullkrug is currently out of action after suffering a muscle tear, but the German had been expected to return to full training in the coming weeks.

Nuno Espirito Santo started Callum Wilson against Newcastle United in the 32-year-old’s absence, and the Englishman performed well as West Ham secured their first victory since August.

However, it emerged on Monday that Fullkrug has handed in a transfer request at West Ham, despite signing a four-year deal just 18 months ago.

Fullkrug’s agent said on Tuesday that “the transfer didn’t work”, with the German spending much of his time at the London Stadium on the treatment table.

West Ham respond as Niclas Fullkrug eyes World Cup

Fullkrug has been woeful in front of goal for West Ham this season, failing to score in any of his seven appearances across all competitions.

The 32-year-old had enjoyed a positive pre-season, and said himself that he was feeling good after a tough opening campaign.

Fullkrug made just 20 appearances across all competitions last season, spending around four months on the sidelines as he dealt with a myriad of injury problems.

The latest blow appears to have been one too many for the striker, who is now eyeing an exit from the London Stadium.

Florian Plettenberg revealed on Tuesday that Fullkrug and his agents are exploring the market ahead of the January transfer window, while West Ham remain relaxed about the situation.

The German’s main objective is to secure a place in Julian Nagelsmann‘s squad for the World Cup next year.

What has gone wrong for Fullkrug at West Ham?

Injuries, of course, have never really given Fullkrug’s West Ham career a chance to get off the ground.

The striker was dealing with a long-term absence after just three Premier League appearances off the bench for the Hammers last season, and has never managed to shake the issues.

But Fullkrug never really fit into West Ham’s system, either. The forward thrived at Borussia Dortmund and with Germany because both teams forced their opposition back, and Fullkrug could spend much of his time in the penalty area.

The former Werder Bremen man has not had that luxury with the Hammers, who spent much of last season defending their own box, while often relying on counter attacks to score.

Considering the £27million West Ham spent to sign Fullkrug, the German unfortunately looks set to go into the list of failed David Sullivan purchases.

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