Stuck in limbo: Karim Adeyemi waits in Barcelona for final transfer green light

Karim Adeyemi’s move to Barcelona has hit an unexpected delay, leaving the Borussia Dortmund forward stuck in Spain as the Catalan giants work to complete the final formalities of his transfer.

Barcelona have already agreed a deal with Dortmund for the Germany international, with an initial €22 million fee set to be paid upfront. Adeyemi has also reached an agreement on personal terms and is prepared to sign a five-year contract at Camp Nou.

However, the transfer remains incomplete, with the club unable to officially ratify the move until president Joan Laporta gives his final approval.

According to reports from Marca, Adeyemi is currently staying at a hotel near the Estadio Camp Nou while waiting for Barcelona to complete the paperwork. The delay comes as Laporta is yet to return following Spain’s 2026 FIFA World Cup triumph in the United States.

Flick’s attacking solution waits for official confirmation

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick identified Adeyemi as a priority signing after the departure of Robert Lewandowski on a free transfer earlier this month.

The former Bayern Munich coach sees the 24-year-old as a key addition to his attacking options, with Adeyemi’s speed and versatility allowing him to operate across the frontline.

Despite arriving in Spain, Adeyemi has not been allowed to join Flick’s squad for preseason training because the transfer has not been fully completed. Barcelona are hopeful the situation will be resolved soon, allowing him to be registered before their planned summer tour of the United Kingdom next month.

The German forward arrives after an impressive spell at Dortmund, where he has recorded double figures in each of his last two seasons. His ability to play on either wing or through the middle has made him an attractive option for Barcelona as they look to rebuild their attacking department.

Barcelona confident deal will be completed

While the delay has created uncertainty around Adeyemi’s immediate involvement, there is no indication that the transfer is at risk of collapse.

Barcelona remain confident the final approval will arrive once Laporta returns, clearing the way for Adeyemi to officially become part of Flick’s squad.

Until then, the former Dortmund star remains in limbo – having completed his journey to Barcelona but still waiting for the final signature that will unlock his new chapter at Camp Nou.