Borussia Dortmund hold talks with Union Berlin's Danilho Doekhi over free transfer
Borussia Dortmund have held initial discussions with Danilho Doekhi over a potential summer move, according to multiple German reports. The 1. FC Union Berlin defender is out of contract at the end of the season and would be available on a free transfer, with Dortmund reportedly keen to secure his services.
German outlets RTL/ntv and Sport.de both claim that the Westphalian club has already spoken with the Dutch centre-back and could "well imagine" signing him. Doekhi, 27, has been a key figure for Union Berlin since joining from Vitesse in 2022, but with his deal expiring, a departure from the Köpenick club appears inevitable. It is understood that staying in Berlin is not an option for the player.
Doekhi's consistent performances have attracted attention from several clubs. During the winter transfer window, Serie A side Lazio and Bundesliga rivals VfL Wolfsburg were credited with interest in the defender. His form has remained strong in the second half of the season; he scored his seventh goal of the campaign in Union Berlin's 3-1 defeat to RB Leipzig on Saturday, underlining his aerial threat from set-pieces.
For Dortmund, a move for Doekhi aligns with a strategy of seeking value in the market, particularly for a player entering his prime years. The club is expected to see changes in its defensive ranks this summer, with veterans Mats Hummels and Nico Schlotterbeck's futures under discussion. Doekhi would provide experienced cover and competition, having made over 80 appearances for Union Berlin and captained the side at times.
From Union Berlin's perspective, losing a player of Doekhi's calibre on a free transfer is a significant blow, but one that has been anticipated given the contract situation. The club will now focus on planning for a rebuild under incoming coach Nenad Bjelica. For Doekhi, a move to Dortmund represents a step up to a club consistently competing in the Champions League, though he has reportedly not yet made a final decision on his next career move.
