Dortmund monitor River Plate youngster as Silva alternative

Borussia Dortmund are monitoring River Plate youngster Ian Subiabre amid ongoing speculation surrounding Fabio Silva’s future.

Borussia Dortmund are already exploring contingency plans up front amid ongoing speculation surrounding Fabio Silva’s future at the club, with River Plate teenager Ian Subiabre emerging as a potential target.

Silva only joined BVB over the summer in a deal worth around €20 million from Wolverhampton Wanderers, but reports suggest that the Portuguese forward is unhappy with his current role under Niko Kovac. While the club have made it clear they do not intend to sanction a winter exit, the uncertainty has prompted the Dortmund hierarchy to assess alternative options. 

According to Turkish transfer insider Ekrem Konur, BVB are among several European clubs keeping a close eye on Subiabre, who has impressed for Argentinian giants River Plate. 

The 18-year-old striker is said to be attracting interest from the likes of Manchester City, Arsenal, Real Madrid, Juventus and Inter.

Subiabre has made 18 appearances across all competitions this term – scoring twice and registering an assist.

He would be considered a long-term solution at Signal Iduna Park, rather than an immediate replacement. Silva, despite reported frustration over his playing time, is expected to remain at the club. 

Sporting director Sebastian Kehl recently dismissed reports that the Portuguese forward had agreed a January move to Real Betis, reiterating that BVB have no intention of letting Silva leave.