Mats Hummels set for automatic contract extension if he plays 22 games next season

Mats Hummels reportedly has a clause in his Borussia Dortmund contract which states that it will be automatically be extended if he plays 22 games next season.

Borussia Dortmund shocked the German football world by bringing Mats Hummels back to the club from Bayern Munich for a club record transfer fee before the start of last season. There were several eyebrows raised at the time of his arrival. But the defensive leader’s exemplary performances over the last 18 months have proven the decision to be the right one.

Hummels signed a three year contract with Borussia Dortmund, which is due to expire at the end of next season. But SportBILD claim that his contract will be automatically extended until 2023 if he plays a minimum of 22 games next season. Borussia Dortmund CEO Hans Joachim Watzke is quoted by the magazine as saying, “Mats has met our expectations 100%.”

Hummels has been one of Borussia Dortmund’s most consistent performers over the last 18 months. He has made a total of 13 appearances so far this season and has been consistently reliable defensively. The 31 year old is also the Black and Yellows’ joint second highest goalscorer at the moment with three goals to his name.

While Hummels’s contract will likely be extended automatically, Dan-Axel Zagadou is set to be offered a new contract. The Frenchman’s current deal also expires in 2022, and SportBILD say that he would be willing to sign an extension with Borussia Dortmund.

Mahmoud Dahoud could also be in line for a new contract if he can continue to perform consistently, as he has done so far this season. While the magazine says that Borussia Dortmund will adopt a wait and see approach for Axel Witsel.