Sébastien Haller may need to accept a significant reduction in salary if he is to secure a permanent return to FC Utrecht, following his loan spell at the Eredivisie club from Borussia Dortmund.
The Ivorian striker rejoined Utrecht in the winter transfer window, marking a return to the Dutch side where he first made a name for himself between 2015 and 2017.
His presence was warmly received, and his performances reignited speculation over a longer-term stay in the Netherlands.
However, despite Utrecht’s clear interest in retaining Haller, the financial realities of a deal remain a stumbling block.
The 30-year-old forward is under contract with Borussia Dortmund until 2026, earning close to €6 million annually — a figure that far exceeds Utrecht’s wage structure.
The Dutch club is eager to extend his stay but are not in a position to match the terms of his existing contract.
This leaves the ball firmly in Haller’s court, with any potential transfer hinging on whether he is prepared to accept a sizeable pay cut to facilitate the move.
Haller is reportedly seeking a stable environment where he can re-establish consistent form and playing time after an uneven spell in Germany.
His time at Dortmund has been marked by health challenges and limited opportunities, and a return to familiar surroundings in Utrecht may offer the continuity he desires.
Still, the financial compromise required is no small matter.
Utrecht, known for its prudent financial management, would not be able to offer anywhere near the salary he currently commands in the Bundesliga.
Club officials are said to remain hopeful, banking on Haller’s emotional connection with the club and his desire for a fresh start to tip the scales in their favour.
While no formal agreement has yet been reached, discussions are ongoing behind the scenes.
Utrecht’s interest remains firm, but all indications suggest the deal can only move forward if Haller agrees to a significant reduction in personal terms.
As the summer transfer window progresses, the situation will be closely watched by both fans and stakeholders.
For now, the striker must weigh financial security against the potential for renewed success and stability in a league where he once thrived.
