“That’s what he wants” – Yet another Southampton player could be off, CL football attracts him

Borussia Dortmund have held good discussions over a deal for Southampton defender Armel Bella-Kotchap, although whether he returns to Germany remains to be seen.

That’s according to Sport 1 journalist Patrick Berger, who provides an update on the situation around the centre-back today.

Bella-Kotchap has been linked with a return to Germany this summer after Southampton’s relegation to the Championship last season.

RB Leipzig were initially credited with an interest earlier this summer as they look for a replacement for Josko Gvardiol, before more recent reports have linked Borussia Dortmund with a potential move instead.

They want to strengthen their squad with a fourth central defender this summer to back up Niklas Süle, Mats Hummels and Nico Schlotterbeck.

Reports in the last few days have indicated that the Bundesliga club are in advanced negotiations with Southampton over a potential deal, although that was followed by claims in England that the defender had reservations as he wants as much game time as possible ahead of the Euros next summer.

That might not be on offer at Dortmund, who already have three central defenders who they are happy with and would only view the Southampton man as back up to them.

Berger now provides details on the negotiations between the two sides, explaining what has happened so far and whether a deal is likely to happen.

“I can’t say whether he will actually come in the end. But what we do know: There were good discussions. I had that confirmed again on Monday,” he said.

“Bella-Kotchap would still like to jump on the Euros train after playing twice for Hansi Flick and above all he wants to continue playing at the top level.

“So, he has to ask himself the question: will he get enough game shares if he comes to BVB? With Süle, Hummels and Schlotterbeck there are three good defenders.

“From what I’ve heard, that’s exactly what appeals to Bella-Kotchap: the competition, the prospect of playing time and, above all, the Champions League – that’s what he wants.

“BVB is currently in talks with Southampton and exploring various options.

“Southampton have their hands on it, if someone immediately offers €25m, BVB can’t do anything. But the player is definitely interested in BVB.”