According to FussballTransfers, Bayern Munich striker Kwasi Okyere Wriedt is expected to leave the club this summer after failing to make a breakthrough into the first-team. As a result, a host of clubs across Europe, including Werder Bremen, Premier League side Norwich City are keeping tabs on the talented forward. Wriedt could be available on a cut-price this summer with his current contract at Bayern expiring at the end of next season.
Wriedt’s struggles at Bayern
Over the past five-six years, Bayern Munich have struggled to properly nurture their youth players and integrate them into the first-team. And Wriedt is one of the prime examples of the club’s futility when it comes to youth development.
Though a product of the St. Pauli youth academy, Wriedt moved to Bavaria back in 2017 in a €400k transfer from VfL Osnabrück. He enjoyed a prolific debut campaign in the Bayern Munich reserve side, scoring 21 goals in 29 matches in the Regionalliga Bayern.
He then continued his superb run of form in the recently concluded 2018/19 campaign, netting 24 goals in 34 matches, helping his team get promoted to the 3.Liga. However, despite his sensational performances, Wriedt made only two competitive appearances for the Bayern first-team. And both of those came during the 2017/18 campaign.
Therefore, a move away from Bavaria makes sense as the 25-year-old seeks a prominent role in first-team football next season.
What can Wriedt bring to the table?
Wriedt is definitely a late bloomer, but he has worked his way through hardship to reach this level. This is indicative of his fighting spirit and an excellent mentality. As far as his gameplay is concerned, the ex-St. Pauli star is a versatile forward who can also operate in the wider-attacking positions.
The Ghanaian international is extremely good with the ball at his feet, and he can easily manipulate the opposing defences by threading in quick passes in and around the penalty box. He can also play on the shoulder of the last defender.
But, what makes Wriedt such a useful component in attack is the tall 1.88m frame that gives him a considerable advantage in aerial duels. And this is coupled with his physical prowess – making him a well-rounded centre forward.
Should Norwich make a move for Wriedt?
Norwich City boast the services of last season’s most prolific player in the Championship in Teemu Pukki. Manager Daniel Farke has also brought in Josip Drmic as an alternative to the Finnish international. However, the ex-Gladbach man isn’t really consistent and could struggle to get to grips with the fast-paced nature of English football.
Wriedt, therefore, might turn out to be a clever piece of investment for the Canaries. The Bayern Munich star has shown immense potential in the German youth leagues over past three-four years and is ready to take on the mantle of professional football.
The Ghanian can provide the much-needed depth in the number nine slot. Besides, his physical and aerial prowess could help him integrate into the physically demanding nature of Premier League – making him a viable target for Farke this summer.
