Borussia Dortmund risk losing star striker Serhou Guirassy for bargain price as release clause drops amid Barcelona interest

Dortmund are facing the prospect of losing the star striker for a significantly reduced fee next summer, according to a report from Sky Germany. Guirassy's contract, which runs until 2028, contains a clause that progressively decreases each year. After a clause valued around €75 million (£65m/$87m) went un-triggered last summer, a new, lower figure will become active in 2026, making the prolific forward a potential bargain. The clause reportedly does not apply to clubs from Saudi Arabia, who would have to negotiate a fee directly with Dortmund.

The Guinea international's availability has put top European clubs on high alert, with Barcelona reportedly on the list of clubs monitoring his situation as they seek a potential long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski. Guirassy has been one of Europe's most lethal strikers since his €18 million move from Stuttgart in 2024. In that time, only Harry Kane (59), Kylian Mbappe (58), Erling Haaland and Lewandowski (both 46) have scored more goals than Guirassy's 44 across Europe's top five leagues in all competitions.

Despite his incredible record, Guirassy is currently experiencing a minor dip in form, having failed to score in his last three Bundesliga matches. However, Dortmund coach Kovac has given the striker his full backing. 

"For me, Serhou is very, very important. He remains our insurance policy because he is a key part of this team," Kovac told Sky. The manager explained the striker is now being double-marked by opponents, which creates space for others. "They are clearly trying to take our top striker out of the game. That’s why it’s not so easy for him. But I know that in the coming weeks, he will again give us what we need: his goals."

Guirassy's immediate focus will be on ending his league goal drought when club football returns after the international break. Dortmund, who sit second in the Bundesliga table, face a monumental trip to leaders Bayern Munich on October 18. While Kovac is confident his star forward will rediscover his scoring touch, the club faces an uncertain future regarding his contract, with the descending release clause making it increasingly difficult to keep him at Signal Iduna Park beyond next summer.