Stuttgart striker Nick Woltemade has been on the radar of several top European clubs, including Chelsea, in recent weeks. However, the talented 23-year-old has reportedly turned down a proposal from the London side, opting instead to pursue a move to Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich.
Woltemade is currently regarded as one of the brightest young talents in German football. The tall forward, standing at an impressive 6ft 6in, had a breakout season last year, netting 17 goals and providing three assists, primarily playing as a second striker.
His standout performances continued on the international stage, where he shone at the U21 European Championship, scoring six goals and playing a key role in Germany’s run to the final. He has also already made two appearances for the senior national team, underlining his rapid rise and potential for further development.
Despite strong interest from Chelsea and Napoli, Woltemade has made his intentions clear. According to journalist Julian Agarde of Bild, the striker has decided that Bayern Munich is the club where he wants to continue his career. In a post on X (formerly known as Twitter), Agarde revealed that Woltemade informed Stuttgart of his desire to join Bayern shortly after the U21 tournament.
Both Chelsea and Napoli were turned down as a result, as the player has set his sights firmly on a switch to the Bundesliga champions.
Chelsea had previously made contact with both Stuttgart and the player’s representatives in a bid to bring the German striker to Stamford Bridge. Reports from TEAMtalk also indicated that Everton had shown interest in the forward earlier in the year.
While Stuttgart were keen to keep hold of Woltemade and were even prepared to offer him a new and improved contract, the striker declined to negotiate a renewal. Instead, he is focused on sealing a move to Bayern, who have reportedly already agreed on personal terms with the player. Discussions are now underway between Bayern and Stuttgart to finalize the transfer fee.
In light of Woltemade’s rejection, Chelsea have shifted their attention to other attacking options. One of their new targets is Brighton forward João Pedro. Journalist Ben Jacobs has reported that the Blues are in active discussions with Brighton and are aiming to complete the transfer before the Club World Cup registration deadline on July 3.
João Pedro is reportedly open to joining Chelsea, and while the club is willing to be patient, they are working hard to close the deal in time for the player to travel with the squad to the U.S.
Newcastle United are also said to be interested in the Brazilian striker, although Brighton have already turned down two offers for him worth over £50 million. As Bayern close in on Woltemade, Chelsea are wasting no time in lining up alternative reinforcements for their attack.
