Man Utd take action as €80m striker demands transfer after manager bust up

Robin Bairner

17 Nov 2025 10:18 GMT
4 min read

Ruben Amorim, Man Utd, 2024/25 — © IMAGO

Manchester United have been told that January transfer target Karim Adeyemi wants to leave Borussia Dortmund after a bust-up with head coach Niko Kovac.

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Ruben Amorim’s side may be cagey over their desire to recruit in attack during the next transfer period, but with Bryan Mbeumo set for international duty and Benjamin Sesko laid up because of a knee injury, Man Utd could be forced into the market.

Adeyemi has emerged as a leading target for their attack, despite the fact that the 23-year-old has been in questionable form with Dortmund. The Germany international has scored only three in 14 games this season.

Current ETV

Karim Adeyemi

F (CR), M (R)

Dortmund

Karim Adeyemi

F (CR), M (R)

Dortmund

ETV Range

€38.9M - €47.6M

An ongoing dispute with head coach Kovac, whom he has publicly clashed with, has not helped his level. Adeyemi notably threw a water bottle after being replaced in a recent Bundesliga clash and there are widespread reports from reputable sources that the tension between the pair is growing.

Now Sky Sport Switzerland transfer expert Sacha Tavolieri has confirmed that Adeyemi is seeking to leave the Ruhr side – although Dortmund will make it difficult for him.

Karim Adeyemi to Man Utd: The state of play explained

Man Utd have held talks with super agent Jorge Mendes over a deal for Adeyemi. With the Red Devils already having two of Mendes’ clients on their books – Leny Yoro and Manuel Ugarte – the relationship with the Portuguese is strong.

Dortmund are said to be “desperately” trying to extend Adeyemi’s contract, but their chances of doing this look slim. His deal is up in 2027, meaning they face losing him for nothing in 18 months if the situation does not change.

The striker wants to leave and has already told BVB’s leaders that he wishes to depart. It is claimed that if he does depart, it will be for no less than Dortmund’s €80m asking price – well in excess of the player’s Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €43.2m.

However, United will not have it all their own way. Adeyemi is said to be targeting a move next summer after the World Cup, where he plans to shine with Germany and secure a lucrative contract.

Man Utd have already made their interest known but Chelsea are also keeping an eye on the forward.

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