Juventus unable to end Nick Woltemade loan as striker struggles for form

Juventus will not be able to send Nick Woltemade back to Newcastle during the next winter transfer window, despite growing doubts over the German forward’s future in Turin.

The 24-year-old joined Juventus from Newcastle in the final days of the summer transfer window but has so far failed to convince manager Luciano Spalletti. Woltemade has scored only once in four appearances, with his goal coming from the penalty spot.

According to French website Foot Mercato, the loan agreement does not include a clause allowing Juventus to terminate the deal early. The Italian club must therefore keep Woltemade until the end of next season and cover his full salary, which is more than 150,000 euros per week.

Juventus are not required to make the move permanent. Newcastle, however, remain open to selling the player after the season, amid uncertainty over his position at the English club. Newcastle signed Woltemade for about 80m euros.

Woltemade had preferred to stay at Newcastle last summer but was encouraged by his manager to move to Turin in search of more playing time. His difficult start has since led to increased criticism, and the striker has admitted that he is not satisfied with his performances.

“I am in a new country and learning a new language, and I am still looking for an apartment because I am currently staying in a hotel,” he said.

“I am not completely satisfied with my performances, but I want to continue improving and help the team.”

The forward’s immediate future could depend on whether he can rediscover his form and demonstrate that he is capable of leading Juventus’ attack. His situation is particularly important because the club are considering other options for the forward line.

Those alternatives include Mateo Retegui, Folarin Balogun and Antonio Raimondo, as Juventus assess how to strengthen their attack during upcoming transfer windows.

Woltemade was linked with Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund during the summer, but his current loan arrangement means Juventus must continue working with him for the foreseeable future. With no option to end the agreement early, the player has a significant period in which to improve his performances and alter the club’s view of his role.