Manchester United's hopes of signing Karim Adeyemi have received a significant boost, with the Borussia Dortmund forward now actively planning his departure from the German club.
Dortmund Exit Strategy Confirmed
According to reports from German publication Bild, the 23-year-old German international wants to leave Dortmund at the end of the current season. This development comes after contract extension talks between Adeyemi and the club reached a complete standstill.
The attacker's current deal runs until 2027, but he's only willing to sign a new contract if it includes a release clause - something Dortmund's hierarchy are refusing to accept. This impasse could force the Bundesliga side to cash in on the player rather than risk losing him for free when his contract has just 18 months remaining.
United's Long-Term Interest
Adeyemi has been a long-term target for Manchester United as manager Ruben Amorim seeks to strengthen his attacking options. The Red Devils have previously failed to secure a deal for the forward, but the January transfer window opening in just weeks provides a fresh opportunity.
In a significant move that could facilitate a transfer, Adeyemi has reportedly signed with super-agent Jorge Mendes, who has already initiated discussions with both Manchester United and Italian giants Inter Milan regarding a potential move.
Dortmund Career Statistics
The German forward joined Borussia Dortmund from Red Bull Salzburg in 2022 and has since made 121 appearances for the club, scoring 29 goals. Despite his contributions, it appears his time at Signal Iduna Park is drawing to a close.
While United appear keen on Adeyemi, club officials have indicated that strengthening their midfield remains the immediate priority. Several potential targets have been identified, including Brighton's Carlos Baleba, Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, and Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher.
United's technical director Jason Wilcox recently emphasised the club's commitment to strategic investment, stating: "We have got a clear plan. We know what we have got to do, we know the areas of the team that we have got to improve. For us to get in the top four and consistently challenge for Champions League places, win Champions Leagues, win Premier Leagues, we have got to invest in the squad."
He added that the club must "buy the right players who are talented but also who can deal with the pressure, who can take the squad forward."
