Karim Adeyemi’s time at Borussia Dortmund is becoming increasingly uncertain after reports of a rift with manager Niko Kovac. Below you will see information about this news which has been summarized The Football Insight.
The 23-year-old winger, whose contract runs until 2027, is reportedly frustrated with his current situation. Talks about a possible extension have stalled, mainly because Adeyemi insists on including a release clause something Dortmund rarely allows in player contracts.
The tension between player and coach has grown over the past month. Adeyemi’s performances have dipped, and his emotional reactions on the sidelines have made headlines. During a match against Köln, he threw a bottle in anger after being substituted, prompting public criticism from Kovac.
Despite these incidents, Adeyemi continues to feature in Dortmund’s starting lineup. Yet, his visible frustration and lack of recent contributions no goals or assists since September — suggest a growing disconnect that could soon push him toward an exit.
Jorge Mendes Steps In
In a significant move, Adeyemi has enlisted super-agent Jorge Mendes to handle his affairs. Mendes, one of football’s most influential representatives, has close ties with Manchester United. He has previously facilitated major transfers to Old Trafford and is known for finding big moves for his clients when tensions rise at their current clubs.
Reports from Germany claim Mendes has requested a £70 million release clause in Adeyemi’s new deal a proposal Dortmund’s management is hesitant to accept. The club’s resistance could leave the door open for Premier League sides ready to invest in young talent.
Manchester United have already been “alerted” to the situation. With their ongoing search for attacking reinforcements, Adeyemi’s speed and versatility make him an appealing option if he becomes available in 2025.
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Kovac’s Mixed Messages
While their relationship seems strained, Niko Kovac has tried to show public support for his player. After Adeyemi’s disappointing display in the 4-1 loss to Manchester City, the coach praised his effort but noted that he needs to be more clinical in front of goal. “He had good chances,” Kovac said. “He just needs to finish them.”
Behind the scenes, though, things appear tense. Sources suggest Adeyemi feels misunderstood by his manager, believing his creative style is being restricted by Kovac’s system. The public criticisms have reportedly made the winger consider a fresh start elsewhere. Still, Kovac insists their issues are “internal” and maintain that he believes in Adeyemi’s potential even as speculation over his future continues to grow.
Premier League Move on the Horizon?
Despite his recent struggles, Adeyemi remains one of Germany’s most exciting young wingers. Since joining Dortmund from Red Bull Salzburg in 2022, he has registered 29 goals and 22 assists in 121 appearances. He also has 11 caps and one goal for the German national team, showing his standing as a player with international pedigree.
For Manchester United, Adeyemi could fit perfectly into Erik ten Hag’s rebuild. His blistering pace, direct dribbling, and attacking instincts suit the Premier League style. With Mendes now in charge of his future, a move to England feels increasingly possible.
However, Dortmund may fight to keep him, especially with other key players like Nico Schlotterbeck also rumored to be unhappy. Whether Adeyemi stays or goes, his situation is one to watch closely as the January and summer transfer windows approach. Follow footballcoasters.co.uk for weekly deep dives into football’s biggest story.