Reports: With Maatsen lost, BVB turn attention to Turkish fullback
Borussia Dortmund's apparent replacement target for the soon-to-depart Ian Maatsen is - according to several sources - Fenerbahçe fullback Ferdi Kadıoğlu. Sky Germany reporters Florian Plettenberg and Patrick Berger are currently confirming reports about BVB interest in the 24-year-old on social media platform X. The 16-times-capped Turkish International is currently serving under Vincenzo Montella's Turkish national team at the German-hosted European championships, impressing considerably in the opening group stage win against Georgia.
Dortmund remain in need of a stellar reinforcement at the left back position following the disappointing season of Algerian Ramy Bensebaini, who joined die Schwarzgelben on a free from Gladbach last season. German footballing media sources currently note that Dortmund have not given up on Bensebaini and have subjected him to a rigorous offseason training program in order to help him regain his fitness and form. An alternative is nevertheless needed. Kadıoğlu could be had for a sum in the €15-20 million range.
The Dutch-born Kadıoğlu has just completed another solid season for his club and continued to thrive since switching his national allegiance. He's netted three goals and contributed five assists in 51 appearances across all competitions for Fenerbahçe this year. Kadıoğlu also netted a goal in Turkey's win over the German national team in a friendly last November. German trainer Stefan Kuntz was the one who initially convinced him to represent Turkey in January of 2022.