Barcelona are on the verge of landing Karim Adeyemi after finally breaking through Borussia Dortmund’s resistance, sources tell ESPN. The Blaugrana have been grinding away at this one, and now it looks like they’re about to get their man.
It was just Thursday that ESPN reported Barça’s opening bid of around €20 million ($22.8m) for the versatile Germany forward. Dortmund promptly said thanks but no thanks. But now? The two clubs are hammering out the final details on a deal worth an initial €22 million ($25m), with another €7 million ($7.9m) in potential add-ons. Oh, and BVB will also get a cut of any future profit Barcelona makes on Adeyemi. Smart business.
Barça expect to wrap this up in the coming days, making Adeyemi their second summer signing after the €70 million ($78m) arrival of England winger Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United. But don’t think for a second that this means they’re done chasing a No. 9. Sources say the Adeyemi and Gordon moves are separate from their hunt for a striker—they still have eyes on Atlético Madrid’s Julián Álvarez to replace the departing Robert Lewandowski.
Now, here’s a fun connection: Barça boss Hansi Flick gave Adeyemi his Germany debut back when Flick was running the national team. So there’s already a bond there. And with Flick leading an attacking overhaul that ESPN first flagged back in March, Adeyemi fits right into the plan.
It’s been a busy summer of exits, too. Veteran striker Lewandowski is off to Chicago Fire FC on a free, Marcus Rashford headed back to Manchester United after his loan, Ferran Torres is in the final year of his deal, and the young Roony Bardghji could be out the door. So yeah, there’s room.
With Gordon already locked in, Barça are now pushing hard for Adeyemi and Álvarez. Imagine that trio joining the current frontline of Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Torres—that’s some serious depth.
Adeyemi brings that sweet versatility, capable of playing anywhere across the front three. He made his name at Red Bull Salzburg before joining Dortmund in 2022. In 146 appearances for the German side, he’s bagged 36 goals—including 10 in 39 games last season. Not flashy numbers, but the potential is real.