Treating the Summer Transfer Window like the NFL Draft

With the NFL Draft underway in the United States, many of the National Football League’s teams will get some talented young players out of college to address their team needs and strengthen the squad for next season.

While there is certainly no equivalent in the Bundesliga (though it might be pretty cool), the Summer Transfer Window is a bit like the draft in that the front office will be busy looking to add players who will strengthen their side. Dortmund will address this summer similar to the way NFL teams address the draft and free-agency periods: finding ways in which to improve the team.

If Mel Kiper Jr. is allowed to do eight million mock drafts, than we should be allowed to do at least one mock transfer window for Dortmund. One note, just because a name is on the “Best Available” list doesn’t mean he is for sure going to sign - as is the case with the draft.

Dortmund Window Needs: Center-Back and Striker

Dortmund are in dire need of some defensive depth in the middle. Although they have secured Omer Toprak already for next season, Dortmund will still need to add another center-back for depth purposes given the inconsistency of current options Sven Bender and Matthias Ginter.

Dortmund won’t look to break the bank on a star CB. Instead, the interest will mostly be in signing a third or fourth string CB who can give BVB options at the back during a crowded fixture schedule.

As for a striker, it appears as if the book is just about shut on Dortmund getting Kylian Mbappe this summer. However, there are still plenty of solid striker options on the board. It all depends on whether Dortmund value experience or youth and if the price tag is cheap.

There is also the question of whether Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will remain with the club. As of now, it appears the Gabon international striker is staying put. However, it’s important to be ready for worst case scenario if Aubameyang does, on the off-chance, decide to leave.

Best CBs Available for BVB

Stefan de Vrij - SS Lazio

Probably a slightly less affordable option for Dortmund, but the Dutch center-back could be a welcome addition on the BVB backline. The Lazio product has been on the Dortmund radar for a few months now, but his services will come with a hefty fee. At 6’2”, de Vrij has showcased his speed and defensive ability as well as being an aerial threat all-over the field. His experience is another factor that could be welcome in Dortmund. It just doesn’t appear the timing or the price (€25 Mil.) is right.

Çağlar Söyüncü - SC Freiburg

The rise of Soyuncu is quite remarkable, as the 20-year-old played his first top-flight football this year for Freiburg after three years in the Turkish Second Division. Many top clubs, like Man City and Man U., are drawn to Soyuncu for his low price and his defending ability. Both English clubs be unable to sign someone like Soyuncu thanks to the terms of Brexit. But if his impressive cap-rate with Turkish National Team continues, England will beckon for the wonder-kid.

Matthijs de Ligt - Ajax Amsterdam

The first two options might be extinguished by the time Dortmund gets a chance to bid, but de Ligt might be a perfect option. Dortmund is terrific at developing young talent, and at 17, de Ligt could be Thomas Tuchel’s next big project. Young defenders have been few and far between at Dortmund, but those like Felix Passlack and Rafael Guerreiro have found success under Tuchel. A move to Dortmund might be just what de Ligt needs to really, genuinely jump-start his career. Though with stiff competition, it will be difficult.

Milan Skriniar - UC Sampdoria

Another center-back Dortmund is looking to swoop. Not much is known about Dortmund’s interest in him, only that scouts will be looking at him in the coming weekends. At just 22-years-old, his experience is already valuable and his 6’2” height makes him even more desirable. He is currently valued around €4 Million and has only just signed with Sampdoria.

Best Availabe Strikers for BVB

DISCLAIMER: Seeing as a lot of these players have been reported on, there are links to articles on those to avoid repetition.

Alvaro Morata - Real Madrid

The 24-year-old striker has fallen out-of-favor at Real and might be looking for a way out again. This season, Morata has flourished scoring 18 goals in 37 games. While his price-tag is expected to be upwards of €40 Million, Morata might be an important bargaining tool if Madrid are truly looking to sign Aubameyang. Otherwise, his future in Dortmund is rather unlikely.

Serge Gnabry - Werder Bremen

The German made a name for himself at the 2016 Summer Olympics, and has 10 goals in 21 league games for Werder Bremen this season. With no release clause, Gnabry will be available for cheap this summer and both Dortmund and TSG Hoffenheim have recognized this opportunity. His skill is already evident and his upside remains huge. For approximately €8 Million, Dortmund will have to jump at the chance. We could very well see Gnabry in yellow and black next year.

Alexandre Lacazette - Olympique Lyon

Bobby Wood - Hamburger SV

Enes Unal - FC Twente (via Manchester City)

Adem Ljajic - Torino

The Serbian striker just signed with Torino last year and has made a significant impact up front. The 25-year-old is being watched closely by Dortmund who could attempt to swoop for the striker this summer. This move seems a bit unlikely as Ljajic does not have the quality Dortmund are looking for up front.

BONUS SIGNINGS that could also happen

Okay Yokuslu - Trabzonspor

The move would likely mean no room for Mikel Merino and loaning him away, which is unlikely. This is, however, if Shinji Kagawa doesn’t leave. If he does, snagging Yokuslu would be smart.

Ibrahim Amadou - LOSC Lille

Another option at defensive midfield would allow Dahoud to play more advanced and give an option to replace Nuri Sahin if he leaves in the next couple season. Plus, only €12 Million + Bonuses isn’t a terrible price for someone with tremendous defensive skill. (Comparable Player: Stephen N’Zonzi)

BVB Academy Summer Wishlist

Jordi Mboula - FC Barcelona B

Release clause of €3 Million and AS Monaco has already bid but looking to negotiate

Marc Cucurella - FC Barcelona Academy

Contract expires this June. Competition with Stoke City to sign him. Watch out for this signing this summer! Great chance it could become realistic and for little to no cost.

Chris Willock - Arsenal FC U23

Another youngster with a contract expiring in June. Several English clubs looking to swoop him while Dortmund is reportedly monitoring him closely.