Dortmund to spend €20 million to complete the signing of French-Ivorian teenager Joane Gadou

Borussia Dortmund are closing in on the signing of highly rated defender Joane Gadou from Red Bull Salzburg in a deal worth more than initially reported, as the Bundesliga side continues to strengthen its defensive line.

The 19-year-old has already agreed to a long-term contract with Dortmund, with only a medical examination and final paperwork remaining before the transfer is officially completed.

According to Sky, negotiations between the two clubs are now in their final stages. The deal is structured around a €20 million fixed fee, with an additional €4–6 million in performance-related add-ons, alongside a significant sell-on clause in favour of Salzburg. The agreement has been facilitated by Dortmund’s sporting director Ole Book.

This revised package is slightly higher than earlier reports from Austrian outlet Salzburger Nachrichten, which had suggested a €20 million fee plus resale incentives.

Dortmund’s urgency in the market has been driven by defensive setbacks, including the departures of Niklas Süle and Aaron Anselmino, as well as a long-term injury to club captain Emre Can. As a result, central defence has been identified as a key area requiring reinforcement.

With the deal now nearing completion, Dortmund are expected to formally announce Gadou’s arrival once all final checks are completed, marking another major investment in their defensive future.