Borussia Dortmund sporting director Ole Book has addressed potential winter transfer plans after missing out on defensive targets, while goalkeeper Gregor Kobel reportedly rejected summer interest from the Premier League, according to recent club reports.
Ole Book Addresses Borussia Dortmund Winter Transfer Plans
Borussia Dortmund find themselves short on depth at full-back following Yan Couto’s loan departure to Como 1907. According to reporting from Ruhr Nachrichten, BVB attempted to sign Hector Fort from Barcelona to fill the void, but the defender ultimately joined Real Sociedad instead.
When asked by Ruhr Nachrichten if Borussia Dortmund will strengthen the position during the winter transfer window, sporting director Ole Book offered a measured response. “We are not overly well stocked in terms of depth either, certainly,” Book said. “But I do think we have various options in the squad who can play there at least in phases. We have some who can play there very well. So anything is always possible. But it could also be that that would still require a departure.”
At present, BVB relies on Julian Ryerson on the right and Daniel Svensson on the left as specialist wide defenders. Utility players Maximilian Beier and Ramy Bensebaini can also fill in when needed.
Gregor Kobel Rebuffs Premier League Interest and Eyes Trophies
Goalkeeper Gregor Kobel drew heavy interest from English football over the summer. According to a report by Bild, Premier League side Newcastle United made an approach for the Swiss international, but Kobel rejected the move.
The 27-cap international reasoned that trophies can be won with the Westphalians in the foreseeable future. Bild notes that Kobel is not currently considering a transfer, though that report contrasts with a claim from Spanish outlet AS suggesting the goalkeeper was discussed at Real Madrid. BVB club bosses plan to open initial contract talks with Kobel toward the end of the year, with his current deal running until 2028.
Did you know? Gregor Kobel’s current contract with Borussia Dortmund ties him to the club through 2028, giving the Bundesliga side strong leverage ahead of upcoming contract talks.
Konstantinos Karetsas Nears Squad Return
In positive fitness news, Greek attacking player Konstantinos Karetsas is closing in on a return to the BVB squad after a bout of circulatory problems sidelined him. Following individual training over the weekend, Karetsas completed a running session alongside Samuele Inacio and Enzo Duarte, as detailed by Ruhr Nachrichten.
The publication suggests that a spot in the starting lineup for the upcoming Bundesliga fixture against VfB Stuttgart is back within the realm of possibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did Borussia Dortmund try to sign after Yan Couto left?
BVB attempted to sign Hector Fort from Barcelona, but he opted to join Real Sociedad instead.
What did sporting director Ole Book say about winter transfers?
Book stated that while squad depth is limited, internal options exist, meaning winter reinforcements depend on potential departures.
Which club tried to sign Gregor Kobel in the summer?
According to Bild, Newcastle United made an approach for the goalkeeper, which he rejected to stay in Dortmund.
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