First suitors: Is Dortmund flop Duranville off to France? | OneFootball

After his disappointing loan spell at FC Basel, Julien Duranville now appears to be on the verge of leaving Borussia Dortmund. There are now initial signs of a possible suitor from France.

The time of Borussia Dortmund and Julien Duranville together could finally come to an end this summer. Although the Belgian is still under contract with BVB until 2028, both sides are reportedly working toward a separation. After a disappointing loan spell at FC Basel, there are now first interested parties for the attacking winger.

As Belgian transfer insider Sacha Tavolieri reports, Duranville was recently offered to Racing Strasbourg. Coach Gary O’Neil is said to have already placed the 20-year-old on his extended shortlist. However, a move to France could depend on Strasbourg first selling some of their own attacking players. In addition, other clubs are also said to be monitoring the Belgian’s situation.

For Borussia Dortmund, the Duranville case is increasingly turning into a financial loss. In January 2023, the Black and Yellows paid €8.5 million to RSC Anderlecht to sign one of Belgium’s biggest talents. At the time, Duranville was seen as a huge promise for the future. Former mentor Vincent Kompany once even believed he was capable of winning the Ballon d’Or.

BVB face multimillion loss on Duranville

However, the technically gifted wide player never lived up to expectations in Dortmund. Above all, numerous injuries repeatedly held back his development. Several muscle problems cost him more than 40 potential appearances in total. According to BILD, there were also internal doubts about his attitude, body language, and overall demeanor.

Photo: IMAGO

The loan move to FC Basel also failed to bring the hoped-for developmental boost. In the second half of the season, the Belgian international made 17 competitive appearances for the Swiss side, but managed only two goals and one assist. Overall, Duranville has so far recorded 27 first-team appearances for Dortmund, with one goal and one assist.

One thing is now clear: the chances of a fresh start at BVB are extremely slim. At the same time, it is likely to be difficult for Dortmund to recoup the €8.5 million they originally invested—especially since FC Basel are also expected to receive a share of any potential future transfer fee.

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