As Yan Couto successor, BVB eye Elias Baum | OneFootball

The signing of Konstantinos Karetsas is imminent following an agreement reached with KRC Genk at the start of the week, and Borussia Dortmund also want to bring in another top attacking talent in Said El Mala, although it remains unclear whether common ground can be found with 1. FC Köln, who rejected BVB’s initial offer and are still demanding a €50 million transfer fee. But beyond these two personnel matters, BVB could also still make moves in other positions.

Apparently, Dortmund are looking at a new right-back as a replacement for Yan Couto, whose long-discussed move to Como 1907 now appears to be in danger of collapsing, but whose departure after two very mixed years in Dortmund is still considered likely.

Specifically, BVB are said to be looking at Elias Baum of Eintracht Frankfurt. Sporting director Ole Book knows and rates the 20-year-old from their time together at SV Elversberg, where Baum played on loan in the 2024/25 season and was one of the best full-backs in the 2. Bundesliga. Back in Frankfurt, however, Baum was unable to take the hoped-for next step in his career last season, neither under Dino Toppmöller nor Albert Riera.

Frankfurt no longer want to let Baum leave

Just a few weeks ago, it therefore seemed clear that Baum would pack up and leave Frankfurt despite being under contract until 2028, and make a fresh attempt elsewhere to establish himself in the Bundesliga. Hamburger SV in particular were considered a strong contender to sign the four-time Germany U21 international, but his situation in Frankfurt has since changed.

Photo: Getty Images

Under new coach Adi Hütter, Baum has been given the genuine chance to prove himself during the current pre-season and now even appears to be on course for a regular starting spot. Frankfurt have therefore apparently scrapped their plan to let Baum leave, meaning BVB may have to look elsewhere for a Couto replacement.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.