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Thomas Tuchel's press conference earlier today revealed a few interesting tidbits of squad news. Tweets are taken from Stefan Buczko of Yellowwallpod:
Tuchel: "Tuesday, was tough but the batteries are full again. Auba got a knock, we have to see about it." #BVBH96
— Stefan Buczko (@bvbawesome) February 12, 2016
- Obviously, a knock to the Bundesliga leading scorer is important. While it sounds like it's nothing major, it seems like a waste to bring him in against Hannover at home, especially with Porto coming to town mid-week. Look for Reus to start at center forward again as he did against Stuttgart, or a rare Adrian Ramos sighting in the startling lineup.
Tuchel: "If we play a linear style, we can use Durm on the wing. If we need a dribbler on that position, it won't be Erik Durm." #BVBH96
— Stefan Buczko (@bvbawesome) February 12, 2016
- Sounds an awful lot like Durm will be seeing most of his playing time happen on the wing this season. With Schmelzer healthy again and Weigl and Ginter in control of the number 6 role in the center of the park, Durm's proven himself to be flexible. Look for him to feature in games against opponents who want to pack in their defense and break on counterattacks. Like, say, Hertha Berlin in the DFB-Pokal semis.
Tuchel: "I'd like to tell you that Ilkay extended until 2026 - unfortunately that's not the case, but talks are being held." #BVBH96
— Stefan Buczko (@bvbawesome) February 12, 2016
Tuchel: "The interest is in Gündogan is great, which is why the talks aren't going easy." #BVBH96
— Stefan Buczko (@bvbawesome) February 12, 2016
- Probably the most important piece of info to come out of Tuchel's presser was this update on İlkay Gündoğan's contract negotiations. While it confirms what's already been widely speculated on in the interest around the German international, it is encouraging to hear that the club is still in negotiations, even if those negotiations have proven difficult. Best case scenario: resign him to a long-term contract. Most probable scenario: sell him for a very hefty pricetag to anyone but Bayern.
- In a bit of noteworthy news that didn't come from Tuchel's press conference, all indicators point to Dortmund signing 19 year-old Mikel Merino from Osasuna this summer. The midfielder comes highly touted from his native Spain, and Dortmund will surely welcome the reinforcements on the attacking end of the pitch.