Italian giants AC Milan have decided not to exercise the permanent purchase option for center-forward Niklas Fullkrug, according to reports from the Italian media.
As reported by the Operative Information Center-OMM, this decision means the German international is set to return to West Ham United at the conclusion of the 2025/26 season. Fullkrug originally joined the Rossoneri on loan during the January transfer window with a purchase option valued at approximately 5 million euros, a move intended to bolster the squad's attacking options during a period of injury concerns.
At the time of his arrival, head coach Massimiliano Allegri was forced to navigate offensive shortages due to the injury of Santiago Gimenez, often relying on combinations involving Rafael Leao, Christian Pulisic, or Christopher Nkunku. However, Fullkrug has struggled to secure a regular spot in the starting lineup, making 16 appearances but starting only three times. His sole goal for the club came on January 18 against Lecce.
According to renowned sports journalist Fabrizio Romano, the 32-year-old striker will be sent back to London following the current campaign. West Ham, a prominent English Premier League side, is expected to seek a permanent sale for the player once he returns to the club. This development highlights the competitive nature of the Italian Serie A, where clubs often utilize short-term loans to manage squad depth before making long-term financial commitments to veteran players.
