Borussia Dortmund are planning a significant clear-out of young talent this summer, with Kjell Wätjen, Cole Campbell, Julien Duranville, and Diant Ramaj all likely to be sold, according to a report in kicker.
The quartet, all aged 20 or under, have struggled to establish themselves as regular starters for Edin Terzić’s side, prompting the club to consider permanent departures. Dortmund are reportedly keen to include buy-back clauses in each deal, offering a potential route back should the players flourish elsewhere.
Julien Duranville, a Belgian winger, has been linked with a move to RC Strasbourg in Ligue 1. The young forward arrived at Dortmund in January 2023 from Anderlecht with high expectations, but injuries have hampered his progress, limiting him to just 16 Bundesliga appearances. A fresh start in France could provide the platform for him to develop.
Cole Campbell, an American midfielder currently on loan at TSG Hoffenheim, may also remain with the Bundesliga side. He has seen increased playing time at Hoffenheim towards the end of the season, potentially making a permanent transfer a viable option. Campbell joined Dortmund’s youth setup in 2021 from LA Galaxy.
Diant Ramaj, a goalkeeper who spent the 2023/24 season on loan at 1. FC Heidenheim, is also expected to move on. With Gregor Kobel firmly established as Dortmund’s number one, Ramaj’s opportunities for first-team football in Dortmund are limited. He will likely seek a club where he can secure regular game time.
Kjell Wätjen’s situation is less clear, with kicker reporting no concrete interest at present. The midfielder has been part of Dortmund’s youth system for several years, but has yet to make a significant impact on the first team. Dortmund’s willingness to include buy-back clauses suggests they retain some faith in the potential of all four players, while also acknowledging their need for regular football to continue their development.
These departures will allow Dortmund to further refine their squad and potentially generate funds for future transfer targets, as they aim to challenge for the Bundesliga title once again.
