Borussia Dortmund are actively seeking to offload striker Sébastien Haller this summer, despite the Ivorian international having one year remaining on his contract.
Haller, 29, spent the second half of the season on loan at FC Utrecht, where he registered six goals and one assist.
His contribution proved vital in helping the Dutch club secure qualification for European competition next season.
However, his performances have not changed the stance of Dortmund’s hierarchy, who are determined to part ways with the former West Ham and Ajax forward on a permanent basis.
According to reports from Sky Deutschland, the Bundesliga side has ruled out the possibility of extending Haller’s stay through another loan spell, instead favouring a full transfer.
The key driver behind the decision appears to be financial, with the striker’s €9 million annual salary viewed as unsustainable for a player no longer in the club’s long-term plans.
Haller joined Dortmund in 2022 but endured a difficult spell marked by health challenges and fluctuating form. Despite a brief resurgence, the club now views a sale as the most pragmatic solution, and are believed to be encouraging interest from suitors across Europe.
While FC Utrecht are reportedly keen to retain Haller’s services following his productive loan spell, a permanent move may be complicated.
The Dutch side, who initially brought him in on a temporary basis in January, would likely struggle to match his current wage demands.
Discussions are believed to be ongoing, but any deal would likely require a significant reduction in salary or external financial support.
Dortmund, meanwhile, see Utrecht as a suitable destination for Haller’s next chapter, due to the familiarity between the player and the club.
Haller previously played for Utrecht from 2015 to 2017, during which he built a strong rapport with fans and management alike.
That connection contributed to his decision to return earlier this year and was instrumental in his smooth reintegration into Dutch football.
However, the possibility of Haller staying in the Eredivisie remains uncertain. The Ivorian striker, fresh off his African Cup of Nations triumph with Ivory Coast earlier this year, is reportedly drawing interest from clubs outside the Netherlands.
The nature and seriousness of that interest remain unclear, but it could provide an alternative route out of Dortmund if Utrecht are unable to meet the financial terms.
For Dortmund, offloading Haller would also clear space in their attacking department as they prepare for squad restructuring ahead of the 2025 campaign.
With his departure, the club would be able to free up significant wage resources and potentially invest in younger talent or reinforcements in other key areas of the pitch.
Despite his inconsistent tenure in Germany, Haller remains a respected figure within European football.
His technical ability, physical presence, and experience at the highest level — including Champions League campaigns — make him an appealing option for several mid-tier clubs looking for a proven centre-forward.
As the transfer window approaches, Haller’s future is expected to become a focal point in Dortmund’s summer dealings.
Whether a return to Utrecht can be agreed or another suitor emerges, one thing is clear: Borussia Dortmund no longer see Sébastien Haller as part of their plans.
