NEWS
Competition for Chukwuemeka? BVB reportedly planning record transfer
The attacking talent from KRC Genk would not only become the most expensive new signing in the club's history but also intensify the competition for Carney Chukwuemeka.
Borussia Dortmund is apparently pressing ahead with its plans for the upcoming season. According to "Sky" and transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, the Black and Yellows have intensified their efforts to sign Konstantinos Karetsas.
The 18-year-old Greek from KRC Genk is reportedly considered the preferred solution to succeed Julian Brandt, who departed at the beginning of the summer and who played over 300 competitive matches for BVB between 2019 and 2026.
A transfer would also have implications for the two ÖFB internationals Marcel Sabitzer and Carney Chukwuemeka. While Sabitzer would gain another highly talented attacking player as a teammate, Karetsas would primarily become a direct competitor for Chukwuemeka. The Greek is comfortable playing both as a number ten and on the right wing.
Galatasaray Also Joins the Race
However, a deal is not yet in sight. Dortmund is not alone in the race for the ten-time Greek international. Turkish champions Galatasaray are also reportedly showing great interest in a signing.
According to reports, Karetsas can generally imagine a move to Dortmund. Furthermore, BVB sporting director Ole Book is said to be a strong proponent of a transfer. Dortmund has reportedly already made initial contact to push a deal forward.
Genk Demands 35 Million Euros
The biggest hurdle remains the transfer fee. Genk is reportedly demanding around 35 million Euros for its attacking jewel – exactly the amount the youngster currently commands as his market value.
Incidentally, in Belgium, Karetsas plays alongside two ÖFB internationals: midfielder Nikolas Sattlberger and goalkeeper Tobias Lawal are also under contract at KRC Genk.
Sporting-wise, the 18-year-old impressively recommended himself for bigger tasks last season. In 49 competitive matches, Karetsas scored three goals and provided an impressive 18 assists. Especially as an assist provider, he was one of the most striking players in the Belgian league.
Matching BVB's Record?
Should Dortmund actually pay the demanded 35 million Euros, Karetsas would match the club's current transfer record.
This record is currently held by Ousmane Dembélé, for whom BVB also paid 35 million Euros to Stade Rennes in the summer of 2016. The investment famously paid off: just one year later, the Frenchman moved to FC Barcelona for almost 150 million Euros, providing Dortmund with an enormous transfer profit.
