Opinion: Why Borussia Dortmund should consider a move for USMNT midfielder Johnny Cardoso

Amid Borussia Dortmund’s midfield inconsistencies this season, it is certainly an area that could use some strengthening. Any recruitment done by BVB would need to be sensible. This means the signing would need to be able to either be an upgrade or fight for a starting role by mid-season next year.

Any midfield signing would also need to fit into the right age profile with Emre Can and Marcel Sabitzer both nearing the end of their prime. While Salih Özcan has enjoyed an impressive resurgence this season, the club should be open to considering other options if he can’t sustain his form.

A player who has just turned 22 and can play in both the number six and number eight role to a high level should interest Borussia Dortmund. Brazilian-American Johnny Cardoso could be the perfect fit for the Black and Yellows. Cardoso was previously in talks with multiple Serie A clubs, including Napoli and AS Roma, before staying with Internacional in Brazil to play the Copa Libertadores.

Cardoso is also a full USMNT international and playing in the Libertadores will check another box for the young midfielder. He is second in the Brazilian top flight for points per match, but more impressively is clearly superior to the league physically, ranking tenth and seventh in the league respectively for percentage of dribblers tackled and aerial duels won.