Borussia Dortmund have wasted little time changing their transfer strategy after ending their pursuit of Köln’s Said El Mala. With the deal for the winger off the table, BVB have turned their attention to Giannis Konstantelias - and the move is now progressing rapidly.
According to Transfermarkt and reports from Greece, the 23-year-old PAOK attacker is travelling to Dortmund to undergo his medical. Should everything go according to plan, Konstantelias is expected to sign a four-year contract with the Bundesliga club. The overall package is reportedly worth around €30 million, including potential bonus payments.
Dortmund’s move for Konstantelias represents a significant change of direction. The club had spent weeks trying to sign El Mala from 1. FC Köln, but ultimately walked away after failing to reach an agreement over the guaranteed portion of the transfer fee. BVB’s final offer was reportedly close to €50 million, while Köln continued to demand a higher guaranteed payment. Dortmund therefore decided against making another attempt and immediately began looking for alternatives.
Konstantelias appears to be a particularly attractive option because he fits several of the qualities Dortmund have been looking for. The Greek international is capable of playing on the wing as well as in attacking midfield, although he is most comfortable in a central role. His pace, dribbling ability and versatility make him a natural fit for Dortmund’s attacking plans.
The youngster has also made an impressive start to the new season. Konstantelias scored three goals and provided an assist in four Europa League qualifying matches for PAOK, although the Greek club were ultimately eliminated by Anderlecht in the third qualifying round.
A potential move to Dortmund would also reunite Konstantelias with international teammate Konstantinos Karetsas. The 18-year-old midfielder joined BVB from Genk earlier this month in a deal also worth around €30 million. According to reports, Karetsas has spoken positively about his early experiences in Dortmund and may have helped convince his compatriot to make the move.