Dortmund shifts to Giannis Konstantelias in new transfer plan

Borussia Dortmund (BVB) has Giannis Konstantelias in Anflug, signalling a clear change in Transferstrategie as the club moves away from the failed Said El Mala deal.

New approach after El Mala

After the rejected €50 million pursuit of 19‑year‑old Said El Mala, the club announced it will aim to close three separate areas rather than spend a single large sum. Sport director Ole Book said, “There is now the possibility of signing more than one player.” Sport‑chef Lars Ricken added, “We are well‑situated, but we want to add a bit more quality, also in depth.”

Konstantelias details and fit

Giannis Konstantelias, 23, travelled from Greece to Dortmund on Sunday morning for a medical. The club has reportedly reached a release package with PAOK Thessaloniki that could total €30 million, and the player is expected to earn a net €3.2 million per year plus bonuses.

Konstantelias’ own brother, 18‑year‑old Konstantinos Karetsas, also joined Dortmund, a factor that Book said positively influenced the decision. In 190 matches for PAOK, Konstantelias recorded 44 goals and 26 assists, primarily operating as a number‑ten rather than a winger, which Dortmund view as an advantage.

Book explained, “With the way we play now, and how we played systematically last season, he is a better fit. Other profiles would have required us to adapt the system.” The club’s preferred 3‑4‑2‑1 formation under coach Niko Kovač does not employ traditional wide forwards.

Other targets and financial outlook

Besides Konstantelias, Dortmund are monitoring a 20‑year‑old right‑back, Hector Fort, who could leave FC Barcelona for around €20 million or a €10 million fee plus a 50 % sell‑on clause. In midfield, Joey Veerman, 27, is linked with a release clause of roughly €20 million at PSV Eindhoven.

Club managing director Carsten Cramer told Sky, “We have been bold with the record release, but we must keep our feet on the ground and not become overconfident.” He noted the current transfer balance shows a €22 million deficit, yet added that “the market is moving and the next three days will be very interesting.”