Report: Borussia Dortmund have concrete interest in FC Köln midfielder Salih Özcan

Borussia Dortmund are said to be interested in signing defensive midfielder Salih Özcan, who could leave FC Köln in the summer.

Borussia Dortmund have already made a big splash in the transfer market with the signings of Niklas Süle and Nico Schlotterbeck, and more arrivals are set to follow in the coming months. The Black and Yellows would like to sign a defensive midfielder this summer to replace the outgoing Axel Witsel.

And according to the Express, Borussia Dortmund are showing concrete interest in FC Köln midfielder Salih Özcan. The 24 year old could leave Köln in the summer to take the next step in his career, and the Express believe that BVB may be a serious option for him.

Salih Özcan has established himself as an integral player for FC Köln this season, and has played a vital role in their bid to qualify for European football. The Billy Goats are sixth in the Bundesliga standings with two games to go.

Özcan has made 31 appearances for Köln this season, and also helped them earn a 1-1 draw at home to Borussia Dortmund in March. His current contract with Köln expires at the end of next season.

Özcan joined FC Köln at the age of nine and made his first-team debut for the club at the age of 18. He helped the Germany U-21s win the UEFA European U-21 Championship last year, but has since represented Turkey at the senior level.

In addition to Özcan, Borussia Dortmund are also keeping tabs on Wolfsburg’s Xaver Schlager and RB Leipzig’s Konrad Laimer.