TSG Hoffenheim sporting managing director Andreas Schicker has confirmed that the club is holding talks with domestic and foreign clubs over the potential departure of striker Fisnik Asllani, as FC Barcelona emerge as surprise contenders alongside Borussia Dortmund for the 23-year-old forward.
Dortmund had established themselves as the clear frontrunners for the Kosovo international, who possesses a release clause reportedly set at just under €30 million (approximately €29m). However, according to Spanish publication Sport, Asllani is presently delaying a decision on the proposed Bundesliga switch to gauge the strength of Barcelona’s interest. His representatives have already held preliminary discussions with officials at the Catalan club.
Hoffenheim acknowledge exit talks
Schicker publicly validated the transfer speculation, telling Kicker: “The situation is that there are talks with clubs both domestically and abroad. It’s also no secret that Fisnik Asllani has a release clause.” The Hoffenheim chief’s statement confirms that the striker, who signed a long-term contract extension keeping him at the club until 2029, is nevertheless expected to depart during the current summer window.
Barcelona initially made contact regarding Asllani in March, though their interest had remained tentative until recent weeks. The La Liga side’s renewed pursuit comes as they are set to sign Karim Adeyemi from Dortmund—a move that has prompted the German club to seek attacking reinforcements and initially identified Asllani as an ideal candidate to fill the void.
Flick holds the key
The immediate future now hinges on Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick, who retains final authority over whether the club formally triggers Asllani’s release clause. This uncertainty leaves the transfer at a delicate impasse, with Dortmund unable to secure the player’s commitment whilst Barcelona deliberate internally over their recruitment strategy.
Should Flick approve the move, Dortmund would likely lose their priority target rapidly, forcing them to look elsewhere as they navigate the potential exit of Adeyemi and the uncertain future of fellow forward Serhou Guirassy. If Barcelona decline to advance their interest, the pathway would clear for Asllani to complete a transfer within Germany.