'We will continue discussions' - Borussia Dortmund fight to keep Karim Adeyemi

Adeyemi's current deal runs until June 2027, but Dortmund are eager to avoid the Germany forward entering the final year of his contract without an extension in place.

Sporting director Ole Book confirmed discussions would continue during the summer break as the Bundesliga club attempt to secure the long-term future of one of their key attacking players.

"That is not the preferred solution," Book said when asked about the possibility of Adeyemi moving into the final year of his contract. "We will continue discussions with Karim and his representatives during the summer break."

Dortmund managing director for sport Lars Ricken also acknowledged that negotiations have been challenging, while stressing that interest from top European clubs is no surprise given Adeyemi's quality.

"The strengths of our players are well known to all clubs in Europe, including those of Karim Adeyemi," Ricken said.

"The situation is clear: Karim still has one year left on his contract, and we are currently in talks about an extension.

"Each party has its own ideas. It is not uncommon in contract negotiations for the terms not to align at every stage - not just in Karim's case. But that is exactly why we remain in dialogue."

Adeyemi joined Borussia Dortmund from Red Bull Salzburg in May 2022 after impressing in Austria with his pace, direct attacking style and eye for goal. The forward signed a five-year contract after arriving from the Austrian champions and has since become an important figure in Dortmund's attack.

With several major European clubs continuing to monitor his situation, Dortmund are keen to reach an agreement before uncertainty over the player's future begins to grow ahead of next season.