The defining story of Dortmund's summer is the collapse of their pursuit of Said El Mala. Sporting director Lars Ricken confirmed to Funke Mediengruppe that the club will submit no further offers after Cologne rejected their final bid, drawing a firm line under weeks of protracted negotiations. Geschäftsführer Carsten Cramer framed the decision as a matter of financial principle, stating that economic sense could not be sacrificed for sporting ambition.

The fallout leaves BVB with a clear gap in their attacking options and limited time to fill it before the season begins. Several names are now circulating. Giannis Konstantelias of PAOK Saloniki sits at the top of the list, with contact between the clubs reportedly established and a fee of around 25 million euros discussed. Fisnik Asllani of Hoffenheim is another option, with sporting director Ole Book said to be a strong advocate. Christopher Nkunku, available from AC Milan after they missed Champions League qualification, and PSG teenager Ibrahim Mbaye are also under consideration, though Liverpool are now moving aggressively for Mbaye.

Beyond the attacking search, BVB also need a right-back following Yan Couto's departure to Como, with Barcelona's Hector Fort identified as a candidate. Internally, centre-back Filippo Mane has been one of the standout performers of pre-season, earning praise from Niko Kovac after a strong display in the 3-2 friendly win over Arsenal. With Nico Schlotterbeck and Emre Can both unavailable through injury, Mane's form offers a timely boost. Dortmund host Roma in their season-opening friendly today as the clock ticks on their transfer business.