Four Premier League clubs in race to snap up highly-rated Borussia Dortmund teenager after handing in transfer request

According to German outlet Ruhr Nachrichten, Kabar submitted a written transfer request to Borussia Dortmund officials two weeks ago, expressing his desire to leave the club after receiving no playing time this season. Clubs from England have shown interest, and according to Bild, Dortmund received a €20 million (£17m/$21m) bid from English club Brentford. The offer was rejected, as Dortmund are not looking to sell the defender permanently.

Kabar has struggled for playing time under Niko Kovac this season. Failing to make a single appearance for Dortmund’s senior team as he could not displace Daniel Svensson from the starting XI, Kabar has only featured three times for Dortmund's reserve side in the Regionalliga West. This lack of first-team opportunities has prompted him to seek a move away from the club in search of regular minutes.

Kabar joined the Borussia Dortmund academy at the age of 13 and has steadily progressed through the ranks since then. His profile rose significantly after being part of the Germany U-17 World Cup-winning team in 2023, as well as the U-17 European Championship-winning squad the same year. Kabar was named captain of Dortmund’s U-19 team during their UEFA Youth League campaign last season. Despite strong performances, which included one goal and an assist, they were eliminated in the intermediate stage by Real Madrid. His potential prompted Dortmund to secure him with a contract extension until 2028, signed in February of this year.

Dortmund will aim to negotiate a loan deal for the talented defender rather than a permanent sale. For Kabar, a January move would provide the opportunity to continue his development and gain regular first-team experience without hindering his progress.