Barcelona have reportedly seen their opening €20 million bid for Borussia Dortmund forward Karim Adeyemi rejected, with the Bundesliga club demanding a significantly higher fee for the Germany international.
According to Marca, the Catalan giants made a surprise move for the 24-year-old as they look to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the 2026/27 season.
However, Dortmund turned down the initial offer, with the club understood to be seeking at least the €33 million they paid to sign Adeyemi from Red Bull Salzburg. Other reports have suggested the German side value the forward closer to €40 million.
Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo also reports that while Barcelona’s first proposal was rejected, Dortmund remain open to negotiations if an improved offer is submitted.
Adeyemi keen on Barcelona move
Adeyemi is entering the final year of his contract at Signal Iduna Park and is reportedly unwilling to sign an extension, placing Dortmund under pressure to sell him this summer rather than risk losing him on a free transfer in 2027.
The Germany international is also said to be eager to reunite with Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick, making Camp Nou his preferred destination.
Negotiations are expected to continue in the coming weeks as Barcelona assess how much they are willing to invest to secure the versatile attacker.
Barca continue attacking rebuilding
Barcelona have already strengthened their forward line with the signing of Anthony Gordon and remain interested in Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez.
The pursuit of Adeyemi is not expected to affect the club’s plans for Álvarez, with reports suggesting Barcelona are preparing a new approach for the Argentina international once he concludes his FIFA 2026 World Cup campaign.
Despite seeing their opening bid rejected, Barcelona remain optimistic that Adeyemi’s contract situation could work in their favour as talks with Borussia Dortmund continue.
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