Borussia Dortmund are monitoring Ajax Amsterdam midfielder Rayane Bounida as a summer transfer option, though any potential deal remains secondary to the pursuit of KRC Genk’s Konstantinos Karetsas and the completion of outgoing sales.
The 20-year-old Belgian-born midfielder, who made his senior debut for Morocco at the end of May, has emerged on Dortmund’s radar as the Bundesliga club assesses options for the attacking midfield position. Bounida has played 29 matches for Ajax since his first-team breakthrough in December 2024, recording two goals and nine assists across various competitions.
His versatility offers appeal to Dortmund scouts. While naturally suited to a central attacking role, Bounida has also operated effectively on the wings for the Eredivisie side. However, securing his signature would prove challenging given his contractual situation; his agreement with Ajax runs until 2028. The Amsterdam club has not entirely closed the door on a departure, but sources indicate they would demand appropriate compensation rather than sanctioning a cheap exit.
Karetsas remains priority target
Despite the interest in Bounida, Dortmund’s primary objective for the attacking midfield role remains 18-year-old Konstantinos Karetsas. The club has already reached a player agreement with the Genk teenager, yet negotiations with the Belgian club over the transfer structure and fee continue.
Transfer timeline
Dortmund officials recognise that they must first conclude other incoming priorities and generate funds through player sales before advancing either midfield pursuit. Bounida appears to function as a contingency plan should the Karetsas deal collapse, rather than the leading candidate.
The coming weeks will likely determine which target Dortmund pursue aggressively, with Genk’s stance on Karetsas set to dictate whether Bounida moves from tentative interest to formal negotiation.