Rediscovering the Strike Force: Why AC Milan Are Eyeing Niclas Füllkrug in Potential Swap Deal
It appears that AC Milan are seriously preparing a move for West Ham’s forward Niclas Füllkrug, and the deal could come in the form of a swap. The Serie A giants are reportedly looking to offload a younger attacker – described internally as “vital” – to secure Füllkrug’s arrival, playing into a larger strategy that could invigorate both sides.
The Context: Milan’s Striking Shortfall
Milan, under manager Massimiliano Allegri, have signalled their intention to reinforce the frontline. The club’s current strike options have failed to consistently deliver, and reports suggest that the Rossoneri are exploring multiple avenues, including the addition of Füllkrug and Norwegian forward Alexander Sørloth. (Football Italia) In particular, the use of a swap deal appears to be on the table. According to West Ham-centric outlets, Milan would be willing to offer one of their younger forwards — perhaps the 24-year-old Mexico international Santiago Giménez, whom they recruited in February 2025 for €32 million — in exchange. (West Ham World)
Why Füllkrug? And Why Now?
Füllkrug arrived at West Ham in August 2024 from Borussia Dortmund, on a four-year contract. (West Ham United) He came with strong credentials: his time in Germany and for the national team suggested he could be a serious presence. Yet his stint at the London club swiftly turned problematic. By November 2025 he had managed only three goals in 27 appearances and is currently experiencing injury troubles. (The Football Group) His agent publicly admitted the transfer “didn’t work out” and suggested a move away could make sense. (Football Fan Cast)
For Milan, this represents an opportunity: a big-name forward (albeit one whose form has dipped) who still carries a profile of experience, and whose arrival could immediately address an area of weakness. The potential swap model (younger forward + perhaps cash vs. Füllkrug) alleviates the financial burden of a straight purchase while allowing West Ham a chance to refresh their attacking options.
What West Ham Could Gain
From West Ham’s perspective, the writing appears on the wall. With Füllkrug out of form and injury-prone, and his agent publicly hinting at an exit, parting ways could be sensible. Milan’s proposed model also gives the Hammers a chance to acquire a younger, hungrier forward — which aligns with their need to rejuvenate the attack. As one report puts it:
“Swap story – if true – offers West Ham the chance to bring in new blood.” (West Ham News)
Risks and Considerations
- For Milan: Bringing in Füllkrug is not without risk. Age (32) and recent form/injuries cast a shadow. The question remains whether he can adapt back into Serie A and deliver the output expected of a top-string forward.
- For West Ham: Letting go of a recognised international striker (even if under-performing) imposes pressure to secure a reliable replacement. Furthermore the success of the swap depends on Milan’s willingness to value the younger forward and perhaps include cash.
- Deal structure: Swap deals can be complex — valuations, wages, and aligning motivations between clubs often slow negotiations.
Conclusion
In short: AC Milan’s interest in Niclas Füllkrug is real, and the swap proposal adds a pragmatic dimension to what might otherwise be an expensive acquisition. For Milan, he offers experience and a potential short-term lift in attack. For West Ham, it offers a route to offload a mis-firing asset and bring in fresh talent. Whether the swap ultimately happens remains to be seen, but given the mutual need it is a deal worth monitoring.
