The “German experiment” at the San Siro appears to be coming to a premature end. As of Tuesday, April 14, 2026, reports from Milan indicate that the club has no intention of exercising the €5 million buy-out clause for Niclas Füllkrug, meaning the striker will return to West Ham United this June.
Füllkrug joined the Rossoneri on a six-month loan in January to bolster a thinning attack, but the move has failed to ignite for either party.
A Difficult Stint in Lombardy
Despite taking the iconic number nine shirt, the 33-year-old has struggled to adapt to Massimiliano Allegri’s tactical system.
- The Numbers: Füllkrug has managed just 1 goal in 16 appearances across all competitions for Milan.
- The Performance: Most recently, he drew criticism after coming on as a half-time substitute in the 3–0 home loss to Udinese, failing to convert several clear-headed chances as Milan’s title hopes effectively evaporated.
- The Injury Factor: A persistent foot injury has hampered his mobility, limiting him to just 567 minutes of Serie A action since his arrival.
The West Ham Return and Beyond
With his contract at the London Stadium running until June 2028, Füllkrug is slated to head back to East London at the end of the season. However, the Hammers are not expected to keep him in the squad.
- Redundant Status: West Ham have moved on under their current leadership, and the striker is viewed as surplus to requirements.
- Summer Plans: The club will look to facilitate a permanent exit in the next window, with several Bundesliga clubs reportedly interested in bringing the veteran back to Germany.
Milan’s Next Move
The decision to pass on the €5m clause signals Milan’s intent to overhaul their front line entirely this summer.
With the futures of Santiago Giménez and Christopher Nkunku also uncertain, the club has reportedly begun a search for a younger, more mobile center-forward to lead the project next season.
Füllkrug will likely have a few more opportunities to say his farewells in the final weeks of the season, starting with Milan’s crucial upcoming fixtures as they fight to secure their Champions League spot.
