Bayern Munich submit opening offer for Nick Woltemade | OneFootball

Bayern Munich have made their first formal move to sign Stuttgart striker Nick Woltemade with an opening bid, according to Sky Germany.

Their opening bid is reported to be a guaranteed €40 million to be paid in four instalments plus add-ons.

Stuttgart immediately rejected the offer, deeming it well below their €80m valuation of the player.

The 23-year-old scored 17 goals in 33 games across all competitions and helped Stuttgart win the DFB Pokal last season.

Woltemade also starred at the European Under-21 Championships, tallying six goals and three assists. Germany were beaten in the final by England.

The gap between the two clubs’ valuations is significant, suggesting that negotiations may continue for some time.

Bayern may increase their offer, although it is unlcear how high they are willing to go.

Woltemade is under contract with Stuttgart for three more years and does not have a release clause, giving the club leverage in negotiations.

The striker has reportedly rejected offers from other interested clubs, making it clear his preference is a move to Bayern.

Bayern have a verbal agreement with Woltemade, who has already agreed personal terms for a five-year contract.

A player-plus-cash deal could aid Bayern’s pursuit of Woltemade, but Stuttgart are not entertaining that idea despite their reported interest in Paul Wanner.