Report: Man United are ‘in talks’ to sign 23-year-old Bundesliga forward | OneFootball

Uncertain Future for Dortmund Forward as Summer Decision Looms

Growing Doubts Over Long Term Commitment

The situation surrounding Borussia Dortmund’s 23 year old forward Karim Adeyemi has taken another significant turn, with Bild outlining concerns that he no longer sees himself at the club in the long run. Those close to him have reportedly said he is “very far from agreeing to extend his contract” and that he “would prefer to leave in the summer”.

Dortmund, when questioned by Bild, stated that Adeyemi has not informed senior figures of any firm decision. Yet the tone from those around him suggests momentum is heading in only one direction. As Bild put it, “there are many indications that the attacking player no longer sees himself in Dortmund for the long term”.

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One remark quoted by Bild, reacting to the player’s public messaging, was blunt: “Someone who was a professional would not speak like that”. It reflects a sense of frustration at how open the uncertainty has become.

Mendes Factor Adds New Dimension

Bild also reported last week that Manchester United have already been in contact with his new agent Jorge Mendes. With Mendes widely viewed as one of the most influential representatives in global football, and with close ties to Manchester, his involvement adds a new layer of intrigue. As one individual familiar with the early discussion put it, “when Mendes is involved, the dynamic changes”.

The report notes that interest is not limited to England. According to Bild, Mendes also held an initial exchange with Inter Milan regarding the forward. The Italian club are monitoring the situation closely and “examining possible scenarios for the summer”, though it remains unclear how recent developments might influence the interest of other sides.

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Complicating matters further, Bild exclusively revealed that the player has been issued a penal order. For illegal possession of a weapon, he “must pay a fine of 450,000 euros”. It is the type of off pitch issue that inevitably raises questions within a club assessing long term alignment.

Contract Tensions Point Toward Summer Flashpoint

Bild state that internal discussions around his future have been ongoing for some time. His contract runs until 2027, but according to the report, he would “only sign an extension with a release clause”. Dortmund traditionally reject such clauses but “would apparently not completely rule one out in this case”.

Those around the club believe any possible clause “would have to be at least 80 million euros”. Given his age, profile and the original investment made to bring him in, that threshold reflects Dortmund’s intent to protect their position should talks break down.

Photo: IMAGO

With contract impasse, transfer interest and off field factors converging, a summer decision now feels increasingly probable. Dortmund have rebuilt before and could do so again, while interest from major European clubs ensures they will not be forced into a weak negotiating stance.

European Interest Continues to Build

United’s involvement naturally heightens the narrative, but Inter’s presence highlights the broader market appeal. Should additional clubs join the frame, the dynamics could shift again, particularly if Dortmund decide that clarity is needed sooner rather than later.

For now, Bild’s reporting paints a picture of a player weighing his next step carefully, while a club prepares for the possibility that this relationship may be approaching its natural conclusion.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

This report feels like the early sparks of a transfer story that could snowball as the summer window approaches. Supporters will recognise the club’s ongoing desire to add pace and unpredictability to the attack, and the Dortmund forward fits that brief on paper. His explosiveness in transition and ability to stretch defensive lines would offer something United have lacked consistently across recent seasons.

The Mendes involvement is a detail fans will pick up on immediately. Deals involving the Portuguese agent tend to move quickly once the groundwork is laid, and the line in Bild that “when Mendes is involved, the dynamic changes” feels particularly relevant. United have a long history of Mendes linked transfers, and this connection will inevitably fuel speculation.

However, there will be realism too. His inconsistency in Germany and the off pitch issue, including the “450,000 euro fine” for illegal weapon possession, will raise questions about focus and maturity. United supporters have seen high profile gambles backfire before, so there will be an understandable degree of caution.

The reported minimum of “80 million euros” for any release clause adds another layer. United fans have grown wary of overpaying for potential rather than proven stability. Yet the idea of beating Inter and other European clubs to a player with such raw qualities will always hold appeal. If the club believes he can regain confidence and form, many fans would view him as a worthwhile target.

Overall, supporters would see this as a chance worth exploring, but with clear caveats. The talent is undeniable, but the risks are equally visible.