Hoeneß Blames Matthäus for Nick Woltemade Transfer Collapse at Bayern

FC Bayern Munich's honorary president Uli Hoeneß has attributed the breakdown of Nick Woltemade's transfer to public comments made by Lothar Matthäus. Hoeneß criticized Matthäus for raising unrealistic expectations about the player's transfer fee, which complicated negotiations with VfB Stuttgart.

In an interview with Der Spiegel, Hoeneß explained that Matthäus initially claimed Bayern would have signed Woltemade for €50 million and believed the deal was achievable. However, Matthäus later publicly stated that Woltemade was worth between €60 and €80 million, which Hoeneß said altered Stuttgart's stance significantly.

Bayern had been unexpectedly close to securing the versatile forward, who eventually transferred from VfB Stuttgart to Newcastle United for €75 million. Hoeneß noted that Woltemade had committed to joining Bayern on the Isar, but Matthäus's remarks created pressure on Stuttgart to demand a higher fee.

"Stuttgart could no longer sell him for €55 million because Matthäus, as a so-called expert, was broadcasting inflated figures to the public," Hoeneß said, emphasizing that the comments made the club's position untenable.

Despite his criticism, Hoeneß clarified that he does not intend to restrict freedom of expression but condemned the impact Matthäus's statements had on Bayern's transfer negotiations. He added, "He doesn't have to exploit his position to keep hurting FC Bayern," referring to Matthäus, a former Bayern player.

Woltemade's season at Newcastle United has been inconsistent following a promising start. Reports indicate dissatisfaction from the player and possible tensions with manager Eddie Howe, who has utilized Woltemade in a deeper role, limiting his scoring chances. Toward the end of the campaign, Woltemade's playing time was further reduced.

Speculation is growing that Woltemade might leave Newcastle earlier than anticipated. Sky recently reported that if his playing time does not improve, a summer transfer could become likely.

This potential move would offer Bayern Munich a second opportunity to acquire the forward, who fits their profile of a versatile striker capable of playing as a classic number nine and exploiting spaces behind defenses. However, current reports suggest Bayern's transfer focus is more on Anthony Gordon, Woltemade's teammate, who can play centrally as Kane's backup or on the left wing competing with Luis Diaz.

FC Bayern Munich's upcoming fixtures include matches against Wehen Wiesbaden on 25 July, Jeju SK FC on 4 August, Aston Villa on 7 August, and RB Leipzig on 15 August, all friendly encounters preparing the club for the forthcoming season.