B-V-Briefing: A tough weekend loss but a crucial UEFA Champions League clash awaits

Back at Dortmund, rumors swirl regarding the longevity of Ian Maatsen and Jadon Sancho in Black and Yellow. Both players are on loan spells until the end of the season, but both have expressed a desire to stay in Dortmund over respective parent clubs, Chelsea and Manchester United.

The problem with this notion, is that both players would likely cost BVB around 30-40 million euros. It’s not a stretch to suggest BVB can afford one of them with the additional funds made available by the Champions League quarterfinals and the new FIFA Club World Cup, but the prospect of holding onto both seems near impossible… or is it? Both players want to stay, and that can be a huge factor in club negotiations. Do I think we can sign both players this summer? No, but I think we can sign one of them and try to retain the other on a season-long loan.

Manchester United know they are losing money on Sancho, and won’t receive their asking price from any party if the forward has his heart on staying in Dortmund. Likewise, Maatsen just signed a new long-term contract with Chelsea, but is more likely to attract interest from several clubs.

Other transfers and contract extensions have been put on hold as the Borussia Dortmund hierarchy reorganises positions and personnel. Hans-Joachim Watzke, who will be stepping down next summer, intends to decide on his successors soon. Other higher-ups who may wind up in alternative football-related positions include sporting director Sebastian Kehl, external advisor Matthias Sammer and the returning Sven Mislintat. Both player and managerial personnel changes could be on the horizon at Dortmund, but until the above is sorted out, new transfers and contract extensions seem unlikely. I’m just humbly hopeful that with this reshuffle comes a new contract for Marco Reus.

Next up for Borussia Dortmund is an away match against Atletico Madrid this Wednesday. Atletico Madrid are a physical side, capable of going toe-to-toe with most teams, but if Dortmund have a good day, I think they can manage a draw midweek. If things are really working, then maybe BVB can take the win? Perhaps it’s optimism, but I’m feeling optimistic.