Borussia Dortmund are emerging as the frontrunners to sign 17-year-old Greek forward Konstantinos Karetsas, ahead of interest from Chelsea and several other Premier League clubs, according to TEAMtalk. Dortmund have stepped up discussions with both Karetsas’ representatives and Genk, as they look to reshape their attacking options following potential departures.
The Bundesliga side are anticipating the sale of Karim Adeyemi to Barcelona, a deal expected to be finalized next week, and Julian Brandt is also expected to leave Signal Iduna Park. These exits have prompted Dortmund to prioritize the acquisition of Karetsas, viewing him as a key addition to their forward line.
Dortmund have already had an opening offer of €26million rejected by Genk, who are reportedly holding out for a fee closer to €35million for the highly-rated young talent. Despite this setback, sources indicate that Dortmund are confident a compromise can be reached.
AC Milan and Atalanta have also expressed interest in Karetsas, submitting initial enquiries, while several English clubs are monitoring the situation. Chelsea were previously considered leading contenders for the player, but their preferred strategy of loaning Karetsas to sister club Strasbourg before a potential move to Stamford Bridge has proven unattractive to the player and his camp. This has diminished the Blues’ chances of securing his signature.
Liverpool, Brighton, Everton, and clubs within the City Football Group have all been kept informed of developments, alongside Leeds United, who have recently held conversations regarding a possible move. However, Karetsas is believed to favour a move to Dortmund, believing the German club provides the ideal environment for his continued development, following a well-trodden path for young players at the Bundesliga giants. A move to Dortmund would allow him to follow in the footsteps of numerous young stars who have flourished at the club before becoming global names.
