Borussia Dortmund in advanced talks to sign Matias Soulé from AS Roma as midfield target
Borussia Dortmund open talks for Matias Soulé as AS Roma weigh a sale; reports cite a €25–30m release clause and Premier League interest before June 30, 2026.
Borussia Dortmund have opened discussions to sign Matias Soulé from AS Roma as the Bundesliga club seeks to reinforce its attacking midfield options ahead of the 2026–27 season. Initial conversations between Dortmund representatives and the Argentine’s camp have taken place, signalling genuine interest in a transfer. The move would come as Dortmund address departures and reshape their creative midfield footprint.
Dortmund initiate contact over Matias Soulé
Initial meetings between Dortmund and Soulé’s representatives are reported to have already taken place, according to Sky Germany. Those early talks are understood to have been exploratory, focusing on the player’s availability and contract terms rather than an immediate agreement. Dortmund’s approach reflects a broader summer assessment of attacking midfield targets following recent squad changes.
The conversations come as sporting directors across Europe prepare for a busy transfer window, with Dortmund intent on acting early if the right profile emerges. Sources indicate the club is weighing multiple options in the attacking midfield role. Soulé’s mix of youth, versatility and Serie A experience has placed him on the club’s shortlist.
Matias Soulé’s 2025–26 season and performances
Soulé, 23, finished the 2025–26 Serie A campaign with six goals and five assists in 33 league appearances for Roma. Those numbers helped Roma secure a return to UEFA Champions League football for the coming season, reinforcing Soulé’s profile as a productive attacking option. His appearances included spells on the wing and in a central attacking role, showcasing positional flexibility.
Beyond raw statistics, Soulé demonstrated an ability to take on defenders and contribute to transitional play, traits that have attracted interest from clubs in Germany and England. Scouts have highlighted his close control and progressive passing in tight areas. Consistent minutes in a tactically demanding Serie A environment have further enhanced his market value.
Reported valuation and release clause details
Multiple reports suggest Soulé’s contract includes a release clause in the region of €25–30 million, a figure that would represent a reasonable investment for a player of his age and output. That range has shaped initial pricing expectations and informed Dortmund’s early outreach. Clubs weighing a bid will consider both the clause and Roma’s broader financial objectives.
Roma, according to Italian reports, are open to selling certain players as they aim to strengthen their balance sheet before June 30, 2026. The club’s willingness to negotiate depends on incoming offers and their sporting plans for next season. Any transfer involving Soulé will therefore be subject to timing and Roma’s internal priorities.
Squad context at Dortmund after Julian Brandt’s exit
Dortmund will enter the new season without Julian Brandt, who left at the end of his contract after seven seasons at the club. Brandt’s departure has created a creative vacancy in the attacking midfield cohort that the club is keen to address. Carney Chukwuemeka has been integrated gradually into Niko Kovač’s plans, but the club sees the need for additional proven creativity and depth.
Young prospects such as Samuele Inácio remain in development and are not yet viewed as immediate full-season replacements for Brandt’s experience. Dortmund’s recruitment strategy appears to balance short-term impact with long-term growth, making a target like Soulé attractive as someone who can contribute now and still improve. The pursuit of Soulé would fit that dual objective.
Premier League competition and market dynamics
Interest in Soulé is not limited to Germany, with Premier League clubs reportedly monitoring his situation and prepared to enter negotiations. That cross-border interest could push the transfer fee higher or accelerate Roma’s decision-making. Dortmund will therefore need to weigh the timing and structure of any offer to remain competitive.
English clubs often present different financial packages and wage propositions, which can alter a player’s preference. Dortmund’s selling points will include guaranteed playing time, a clear development plan and Champions League football if the move proceeds. The club’s recruitment team must balance those selling points against market realities and competing suitors.
Tactical fit under Niko Kovač and playing pathway
From a tactical perspective, Soulé’s skill set aligns with the roles Dortmund seeks in an attacking midfielder capable of operating between the lines. Kovač has used versatile attackers in the final third and values players who can combine direct dribbling with incisive passing. Soulé’s Serie A experience and adaptability to different offensive systems would ease his transition into Dortmund’s setup.
Dortmund would likely introduce Soulé gradually while giving him opportunities in rotated fixtures and European competition to build chemistry. Coaching staff will want him to develop defensive transitions and positional discipline within Dortmund’s high-tempo pressing game. If integrated successfully, Soulé could become a regular contributor in both domestic and continental matches.
Timeline, negotiations and Roma’s financial window
The coming weeks are expected to be decisive as negotiations progress ahead of Roma’s stated financial deadline on June 30, 2026. Clubs face a condensed window to agree terms, conduct medicals and complete paperwork before the end of the fiscal quarter. Dortmund will need to balance speed with due diligence if they are to secure a player with several interested parties.
Any formal bid would also consider payment structure, potential add-ons and the player’s personal terms to reach a comprehensive agreement. Roma’s negotiating position will be influenced by other incoming or outgoing moves as they prepare for Champions League commitments. Observers expect activity to intensify as the deadline approaches and clubs firm up their summer plans.
Borussia Dortmund’s interest in Matias Soulé highlights the club’s strategic push to replenish creative talent following key departures and to build a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts. The reported release clause places Soulé within reach of top European clubs, but competition from the Premier League and Roma’s financial timetable complicate the market. How quickly negotiations advance and whether Dortmund convert talks into a signed contract will become clearer in the weeks leading up to the transfer-window deadlines, with both sporting and financial considerations guiding the outcome.
