Joane Gadou has officially joined Borussia Dortmund after the Bundesliga side confirmed the signing of the highly-rated defender from Red Bull Salzburg.
The move marks another important step in the career of the 19-year-old French-Ivorian defender, who had attracted interest from several major European clubs in recent months.
Before the agreement with Dortmund was finalised, Gadou had been linked with clubs including FC Barcelona, while speculation also suggested a possible return to Paris Saint-Germain, where he developed during his youth career.
Borussia Dortmund announced the transfer in an official statement, confirming that the defender has signed a five-year contract running until 2031. He is expected to officially join the German side at the end of the current season.
Although the clubs did not disclose the full financial details of the deal, reports from Sky Sport journalist Patrick Berger indicated that Dortmund agreed to pay €19.5 million, with an additional €4.5 million potentially included in bonuses.
Further reports from journalist Fabrice Hawkins stated that Paris Saint-Germain are expected to receive around €2 million due to a clause entitling the French club to a percentage of any future capital gain from a transfer involving the player.
Gadou arrives in Germany after two years of development in Austria, where he continued to build his reputation as one of the promising young defenders of his generation.
Known for identifying and developing emerging talent, Borussia Dortmund are believed to view the French-Ivorian defender as another long-term investment capable of growing into a major figure at European level.
The teenager expressed his excitement after the move was confirmed.
“I am delighted to be part of the BVB family in the future and I can’t wait to wear the black and yellow shirt for the first time. Alongside my teammates, the entire club, and our incredible fans, I hope to achieve success in the coming years.”
Valued at €12 million on Transfermarkt, Gadou has already gained significant senior experience despite his age.
This season, he has made 33 appearances in all competitions, accumulating 2,720 minutes of playing time and further strengthening his growing reputation across Europe.
Borussia Dortmund will now hope the young defender can continue his development in the Bundesliga and eventually become one of the club’s next major success stories.
