American teenager angry at Borussia Dortmund amid transfer stand-off over Stuttgart offer

According to Sport Bild, tensions are reportedly rising behind the scenes at Dortmund after Campbell’s transfer request was denied by the club. Head coach Kovac had advised the 19-year-old winger to seek a move due to limited playing time, especially with Dortmund’s reserve team now relegated to the fourth-tier Regionalliga. Campbell, who reportedly agreed to a five-year contract with Stuttgart, was seen as too good to play in the fourth division. Kovac didn’t view him as a key part of the senior squad either, making a transfer seem like the logical step, particularly with the 2026 World Cup in sight.

Despite Kovac’s backing, Dortmund’s board has blocked the move. The club reportedly demanded €8 million for Campbell, while Stuttgart only offered €4m. The Bundesliga club is facing injuries and a lack of depth on the flanks following Jamie Gittens' exit and Julien Duranville’s shoulder surgery, which led Dortmund to reconsider letting him go.

Internally, Dortmund did not plan on a permanent sale of the U.S. youth international, who is under contract until 2028. If a transfer were to happen, it would most likely include a buy-back clause.

Campbell played 75 minutes last season across all competitions. The 19-year-old made four Bundesliga appearances, one short cameo in the Champions League, and played one match in the DFB-Pokal. He also travelled with them for the Club World Cup but didn't get a minute on the pitch.

Unless Stuttgart meet Dortmund’s asking price or Campbell puts his foot down, the teenager is set to stay. If the young winger does manage to force a move, the Bundesliga club is expected to include a buy-back clause in the deal.