Newcastle United have officially completed the signing of German striker Nick Woltemade from VfB Stuttgart for a club-record fee. The deal is reportedly worth £69 million, surpassing the £63 million Newcastle paid for Alexander Isak in 2022. The 23-year-old has signed a long-term deal with the Magpies and will wear the number 27 shirt.

Woltemade's arrival at St. James' Park comes amid intense speculation surrounding the future of Alexander Isak, who is reportedly seeking a move to Liverpool. Isak is said to be adamant about leaving Newcastle and has not featured for the club this season. Newcastle reportedly rejected a bid of £110 million plus add-ons from Liverpool earlier in the summer. The acquisition of Woltemade could pave the way for Isak's departure, with Newcastle maintaining they would only sell if they found a suitable replacement.

Woltemade had also attracted interest from Bayern Munich, who had multiple offers rejected by Stuttgart. He scored 17 goals in 33 appearances for Stuttgart last season.

Woltemade expressed his excitement about joining Newcastle, stating, "I'm really happy to be at this amazing club. From the first contact, I felt like the club really wanted me and had big plans for me". He added, "It's a big step in my life to leave Germany, but everybody has welcomed me so well, and it already feels like family. I have a really good feeling from speaking to the head coach that this is the right place for me to find my best level".

Described as an "unconventional" player, Woltemade stands at 6ft 6in but is not a typical target man. He prefers to roam into wide areas and drop deep, and is also a capable dribbler. Sky Sports' Adam Bate noted that Woltemade's name was frequently mentioned alongside Bundesliga legends, with Cacau, a former Stuttgart striker, praising Woltemade's ability to score and assist, describing him as the "perfect No. 9" for Stuttgart.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe is said to be delighted with the signing, as he was keen to add height and physicality to his team. Woltemade has been described as a "Two metre Messi-Musiala" by Stuttgart fans, highlighting his blend of physical presence and technical skill.

Woltemade will not be available for Newcastle's game against Leeds United, as the deal was completed too late. However, he is expected to be in contention to make his debut against Wolves after the international break.

With Callum Wilson having joined West Ham, and uncertainty surrounding Isak, Newcastle are potentially looking to bring in another striker before considering offers for Isak. Yoane Wissa from Brentford and Jorgen Strand Larsen from Wolves have been mentioned as potential targets. Newcastle have already had bids rejected for Wissa.