Dortmund boss opens up on Chelsea transfer talks for Gittens

Borussia Dortmund sporting director Sebastian Kehl has addressed Chelsea’s failed attempt to sign Jamie Gittens on Tuesday.

On Tuesday, reports surfaced that Chelsea were attempting to strike a deal to sign Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund before the early transfer window closed ahead of the Club World Cup.

However, the Blues ultimately came away empty-handed as they were unable to agree on a transfer fee with Dortmund.

Speaking to Ruhr Nachrichten the following day, BVB sporting director Sebastian Kehl shed light on the negotiations from Dortmund’s perspective.

“We exchanged expectations and differing views with Chelsea in the afternoon,” Kehl explained. 

“In the end, we didn’t reach an agreement because we had different ideas about the player’s current value.”

According to reports, Chelsea offered €50 million plus €5 million in bonuses, while Dortmund demanded over €60 million plus performance-related add-ons.

Although an agreement wasn’t reached, Kehl described the discussions as “very, very respectful.”

He didn’t rule out further talks over the summer, noting that the two clubs remain “in good communication” and will “see how things develop in the future.”

Regarding Gittens himself, Kehl said the 20-year-old is “committed to Borussia Dortmund” and is looking forward to the Club World Cup. 

As for what happens with the young winger after the tournament in the U.S., Kehl added: 

“We will see.”