Reports: Gladbach consider Itakura sale whilst courting Copenhagen's Diks
In a set of dual transactions not unlike that seen at Bundesliga champions Bayer 04 Leverkusen yesterday, Borussia Mönchengladbach are willing to ship out one central defender if it can be guaranteed that they can pick up another. PSV Eindhoven's pursuit of Japanese center back Ko Itakura may end up with Itakura being sold, provided Roland Virkus and the BMG administrative team can pick up an immediate replacement.
Germany's "Sport Bild" tabloid reports that the Erdevisie champions have increased their initial offer for Itakura. After pocketing a fee expected to rise well above €15 million, the foals will then purchase FC Copenhagen's Kevin Diks for around €5 million. This is reported by online Danish sports portal "Bold", which also notes that the Danish capital city side are reluctant to let the 27-year-old go.
It may very well be the case that Gladbach won't consider parting company with Itakura unless two replacements can be procured. Rumor mills currently overheat with gossip about who this second player might be. VfL Bochum's Bernardo, former Hertha professional Jordan Torunarigha, and Hoffenheim flop Atilla Szalai are all mentioned.