Why PSG passed up option to re-sign French-Ivorian teenager Joane Gadou

Paris Saint-Germain have decided not to activate their option to re-sign young defender Joane Gadou, who is now set to join Borussia Dortmund.

The 19-year-old centre-back, who left PSG in 2024 without making a senior appearance, is close to completing a major move to the Bundesliga side after an impressive spell with FC Red Bull Salzburg.

PSG’s former talent moves on

Gadou was highly rated during his time at PSG’s academy but failed to break into the first team before joining Salzburg in a €10 million deal.

Since moving to Austria, the defender has developed rapidly, earning regular playing time and attracting interest from top European clubs, including Dortmund.

Dortmund secure long-term deal

Reports indicate that Gadou has already signed a five-year contract with Borussia Dortmund in a deal worth around €20 million, with an additional €6 million in potential bonuses.

The German club are expected to complete the transfer before the summer window officially opens.

PSG to earn small profit

As part of the previous agreement with Salzburg, PSG held a right of first refusal on the player but ultimately chose not to exercise it. A source has disclosed that the club passed up the option to re-sign the teenager because of numerous options in their current squad.

Despite missing out on a reunion, the French champions will still receive around €2 million from the transfer as part of a sell-on clause.