Dortmund’s €20m hurdle: why Veerman’s move to Germany stalls

Borussia Dortmund’s search for a new wide attacker is hitting a financial wall as a potential €20 million signing of PSV midfielder Joey Veerman looks increasingly unlikely. The German club’s modest budget and a priority on acquiring Said El Mala from 1.FC Köln leave little room for the Dutch playmaker, whose contract clause expires soon.

Budget limits curb Dortmund’s ambitions

According to the German Ruhr Nachrichten, Dortmund operates with a relatively modest transfer budget. The club has already identified a new winger as a top priority, with Said El Mala priced at €50 million. Ruhr Nachrichten questions whether any funds would remain after that purchase to cover Veerman’s €20 million price tag.

The Eindhovens Dagblad reported this week that Veerman could be secured for €20 million in Eindhoven. However, the clause is set to run out shortly, adding urgency to any potential deal.

Veerman’s profile doesn’t fit Kovac’s plan

Ruhr Nachrichten also doubts Dortmund would meet the €20 million figure, noting Veerman’s limited resale value and his playing style. The newspaper describes him as more of an “8” than a “6”, whereas coach Niko Kovac seeks a “strong ball‑winner” for his midfield.

Kovac already has Jobe Bellingham and Felix Nmecha covering the “6” role, reducing the need for a player of Veerman’s type.

Given the mismatch, Dortmund may instead target a relatively cheap defensive midfielder or explore a loan arrangement in the final days of the transfer window.

While the Ruhr Nachrichten confirms BVB’s interest, it places clear caveats on the feasibility of the move. The combination of a tight budget, the high cost of El Mala, and the tactical profile required by Kovac makes a Veerman transfer to Germany appear unlikely at this stage.