Borussia Dortmund Sign Midfielder From Stuttgart in €30m Deal
Borussia Dortmund have completed the signing of midfielder Chris Müller from VfB Stuttgart for a reported €30 million, finalizing a four-year contract ahead of the 2023/24 Bundesliga campaign. The German champions confirmed the permanent transfer on Tuesday, with the 24-year-old set to join first-team training immediately.
Müller’s move follows Stuttgart’s acceptance of Dortmund’s improved bid after initial negotiations stalled last week. The deal includes performance-based add-ons that could raise the total value to €35 million. Dortmund identified Müller as a priority target to bolster their midfield following the departure of Ilkay Gündogan to Barcelona earlier this summer.
The Germany international enjoyed a breakout 2022/23 season, contributing 12 goals and seven assists across all competitions for Stuttgart. His dynamic box-to-box style and set-piece proficiency attracted interest from multiple Premier League clubs, but Dortmund’s Champions League status and long-term project reportedly swayed the player’s decision.
Dortmund sporting director Sebastian Kehl described Müller as “a perfect fit for our system” during the unveiling, emphasizing his versatility in both defensive and attacking phases. The transfer marks Stuttgart’s second major sale this window after Borna Sosa’s move to Ajax, with funds expected to be reinvested in squad reinforcements.
Müller’s arrival addresses Dortmund’s need for midfield creativity following Gündogan’s exit and Jude Bellingham’s transfer to Real Madrid. He is expected to compete with Emre Can and Salih Özcan for a starting role, with manager Edin Terzić likely to deploy him in advanced positions during pre-season fixtures.
