Report: Man United ‘considering’ move to sign 23-year-old Bundesliga forward | OneFootball

Manchester United Eye Dortmund’s Frustrated Forward Karim Adeyemi

Karim Adeyemi’s time at Borussia Dortmund appears to be entering a delicate phase. According to Bild, the 23-year-old forward has grown increasingly frustrated under coach Niko Kovac, who himself is navigating his first turbulent period since arriving at the club.

After being substituted in Dortmund’s 1-0 win against Cologne, Adeyemi threw a water bottle in frustration. Kovac responded after the match, saying, “I think something like that is unnecessary. It’s okay that he can be angry sometimes, but that’s unnecessary, he’s an adult.” That moment, small as it may seem, underlined a growing disconnect between player and manager.

Tensions have been evident for weeks. In the 1-1 draw against Hamburg, Kovac reportedly yelled at Adeyemi on the touchline before sending him on in the 66th minute. With no goal or assist in the Bundesliga since September’s clash with Mainz, the player’s struggles are being closely scrutinised both inside and outside the club.

Photo: IMAGO

Contract Stand-Off Raises Questions

Adeyemi’s current deal runs until 2027, but Bild reports that he is seeking an extension only if Dortmund agree to an exit clause, believed to be worth at least €80 million. For a club that generally avoids such clauses, this is a sticking point.

Those close to the situation believe Dortmund may reluctantly consider the idea, especially if Adeyemi’s performances and mindset do not improve. As one insider put it, “The feeling around the club is that something has to change, either his form or his future.”

United Make Contact Through Mendes

Adding a new twist, Bild has revealed that Manchester United have entered preliminary discussions with Adeyemi’s agent Jorge Mendes. The Portuguese super-agent, already representing names like Leny Yoro and Manuel Ugarte, has long-standing ties to English clubs, including United.

His involvement could reshape Adeyemi’s career trajectory. Mendes’ reputation for brokering big transfers makes this connection especially significant. “Mendes brings options and visibility,” a source close to the player reportedly said, hinting that a Premier League switch could appeal to the young forward.

United’s interest is described as exploratory but serious. With manager Ruben Amorim keen to add pace and directness to his attack, Adeyemi fits the profile: a dynamic winger capable of operating across the front line, known for his acceleration and counter-attacking instincts.

Dortmund Braced for Interest

For Dortmund, the situation is a familiar one. They have seen emerging stars like Erling Haaland and Jadon Sancho move on after similar tensions between ambition and opportunity. If Adeyemi’s form continues to stagnate, and if United formalise their approach, Dortmund could once again be preparing for a high-profile exit.

What remains clear is that Adeyemi’s time in Germany has reached a crossroads. His potential remains immense, but as Bild concluded, “If Manchester United show serious interest, Adeyemi’s future in Dortmund could become an issue sooner than many would like.”

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester United fan’s perspective, this report will spark intrigue and cautious optimism. Under Ruben Amorim’s second season, United have looked more cohesive but still lack a consistent threat from wide areas. Adeyemi’s profile fits Amorim’s style perfectly, blending pace, pressing intelligence, and explosive dribbling — traits that align with the manager’s aggressive transitions.

Yet, there are questions. Adeyemi’s struggles at Dortmund hint at deeper confidence and tactical issues. United’s setup demands discipline and work rate, and fans will wonder whether he possesses the mentality to thrive in a high-pressure Premier League environment. The water bottle incident might raise eyebrows, but some supporters could interpret it as a sign of passion rather than petulance.

If the €80 million clause reported by Bild holds true, that fee would place Adeyemi among the club’s most expensive signings. For many fans, the hope would be that Mendes’ involvement signals not another risky gamble, but a calculated move for a player with unfinished business at the top level.

Ultimately, supporters will see Adeyemi as a project worth exploring — a player who, if guided correctly by Amorim, could reignite his career and provide the electric pace United’s frontline has long missed.