Rückzug from El Mala drives BVB Transfer: Konstantelias arrives

Following the Rückzug from the pursuit of Said El Mala, Borussia Dortmund (BVB) announced a Transfer to fill the offensive gap. Midfielder Giannis Konstantelias, 23, joins from PAOK Saloniki on a Vertrag running until 30 June 2031, offering a fresh option for the Westfalen side.

Nach dem Rückzug from the Poker negotiations for Said El Mala of 1. FC Köln, the club prompted an Alternativlösung for the Offensive. As BVB disclosed on Montagnachmittag, the move aims to restore attacking depth after the failed deal.

Official signing and long‑term deal

Der Mittelfeldspieler, 23, was officially confirmed on Monday afternoon, arriving from PAOK Saloniki. He signed a Vertrag that binds him to Borussia Dortmund until 30 June 2031.

Giannis Konstantelias becomes the second Greek Neuzugang this summer after Konstantinos Karetsas, and only the third Greek in the history of the Vizemeisters. The back‑to‑back arrivals underline Dortmund’s focus on Mediterranean talent.

Financial package and clauses

Media reports cite a Sockelablöse of 26 million euros for Konstantelias, with possible bonuses lifting the total package above 30 million euros. Mit möglichen Boni the total could exceed that amount, and PAOK secured a 17.5 percent Weiterverkaufsbeteiligung.

Rumours of BVB’s interest surfaced in the past weeks, intensifying after the unsuccessful pursuit of Said El Mala. The club had monitored the 18‑time international Spieler before turning to the Greek midfielder.

Sportdirektor Ole Book said, “With Giannis we gain a player who will strengthen us with his qualities. We see great potential and are convinced he fits perfectly into our squad.” He added thanks to the colleagues at FC PAOK for the professional and appreciative handling of the transfer.

Giannis Konstantelias will soon don the Schwarzgelb of Borussia Dortmund and train with the first team. The club expects him to integrate quickly as part of its Westfalen project.