Milan are exploring a January loan for Niclas Fullkrug after Santiago Gimenez’s surgery. For punters, this raises the appeal of backing under 2.5 goals for Milan or wagering on Fullkrug to score within his first three starts if he plays, given Milan’s makeshift attack and West Ham’s insistence on a future buy clause.
Milan step up pursuit of Niclas Fullkrug ahead of January window
Milan have opened talks to bring Germany international Niclas Fullkrug to San Siro in the January transfer window as cover following Santiago Gimenez’s confirmed ankle surgery. The Rossoneri are weighing a short-term solution to bolster Massimiliano Allegri’s forward options while Gimenez is sidelined.
Why Milan urgently need a centre‑forward
Gimenez faces an operation and could miss anywhere between six weeks and three months, leaving Milan light in central striking options. Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic — typically deployed as wide players — and Christopher Nkunku are the only forwards currently available in Allegri’s 3-5-2 setup, increasing the need for a traditional number nine.
Fullkrug’s profile and recent form
Fullkrug is viewed as a classic centre-forward with aerial presence and hold-up play, traits Milan value for a short-term focal point. However, his goal return at West Ham has been modest, which makes him a calculated short-term option rather than a guaranteed solution.
Proposed deal structure and finances
Milan are reportedly prepared to cover Fullkrug’s wages from January through the end of the 2025–26 season — estimated at around €1.5m for that period — and prefer a straight loan until the end of 2025–26, possibly including an option to buy. West Ham are understood to be seeking an obligation to buy clause for roughly €16m; the club paid about €27m to sign Fullkrug from Borussia Dortmund in summer 2024.
Betting implications and market moves
Punters should expect short-term market reactions: Milan’s attacking uncertainty makes under 2.5 goals and cautious match-total markets attractive, while player-prop markets may open up favourable odds for Fullkrug to score within his first few starts. Any transfer confirmation will likely shift odds quickly, especially in goalscorer and starting-lineup markets.
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Reports in Italy confirm that Milan are in talks over a potential deal for Germany...
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