Arsenal and Barcelona Lock Horns in Battle for Bundesliga Star Craving European Move
Julian Brandt has emerged as a target for Arsenal and Barcelona following confirmation that he will depart Borussia Dortmund as a free agent this summer.
The German midfielder moved to Dortmund from Bayer Leverkusen in 2019 and has remained in the Bundesliga throughout his professional career. With his 30th birthday approaching in May, the versatile player who operates as a left winger or attacking midfielder appears eager to experience a new challenge before time runs out, motivating him to leave his familiar surroundings.
Dortmund's sporting director Lars Ricken confirmed over the weekend: "Both parties reached a mutual agreement that the expiring contract wouldn't be renewed. I think we separated with tremendous respect. However, this also presents fresh opportunities for everyone involved."
Sky Sport in Germany indicates that Brandt "desires to move overseas" for his next career step. Potential destinations include Arsenal and Barcelona, with the financially constrained Spanish club particularly interested due to the lack of transfer costs. Both teams are reportedly "keeping tabs" on developments, though significantly neither would guarantee Brandt a starting position, viewing him as squad depth or backup. No formal contact has been made yet.
At Arsenal, Brandt would provide versatility as cover across two positions. This could enable the Gunners to move on Leandro Trossard or capitalize on Gabriel Martinelli's value, while Martin Ødegaard's recent struggles and Mikel Merino's fitness issues have exposed limited options in central areas.
Barcelona's Budget-Friendly Option to Marcus Rashford
Barcelona's Budget-Friendly Option to Marcus Rashford
At Barcelona, serving as primary backup to Raphinha seems the most probable scenario, though much could hinge on Marcus Rashford's situation.
The Manchester United forward would require approximately $35–40 million for a permanent transfer due to clauses in his loan arrangement. He's also less than 18 months younger than Brandt, who comes without any transfer fee. Brandt's reported Dortmund wages ($156,000 weekly) represent just over one-third of Rashford's current earnings ($436,000 weekly).
Barcelona might hold an advantage over English, Italian, or French competitors since Brandt is reportedly studying Spanish, having a Catalan partner.
Dortmund Target Jadon Sancho (Once More)
Dortmund Target Jadon Sancho (Once More)
Finding Brandt's successor will be essential, raising questions about whether Jadon Sancho might return to Borussia Dortmund for a third stint. The possibility exists.
After developing Sancho during his initial period from 2017–2021 and subsequently securing him on a temporary basis from Manchester United in 2024, Dortmund explored another reunion last summer before financial constraints made it unfeasible.
However, circumstances have shifted. Sancho, currently on loan at Aston Villa, becomes a free agent when the season concludes. With merely seven Premier League appearances for Villa and just one goal plus one assist in all competitions, he likely hasn't impressed enough to secure a permanent deal there, and Dortmund remains the sole club where the 25-year-old has consistently excelled throughout his career.