The Daily Bee (May 23rd, 2018): Oh Captain! My Captain!

• Schmelzer gives up captaincy

Marcel Schmelzer has decided to give up the captaincy of Borussia Dortmund going forward. The friendly against LAFC was his last as captain of the black and yellows. In an official statement Schmelzer said “They were two strenuous and intense years that consumed a lot of energy. It was my decision. I believe this is what’s best”.

Schmelzer came under a lot of criticism recently not only for his play (sadly Schmelle played arguably his worst season as a professional) but also for his leadership in a tumultuous season.

The left back took over for Sebastian Kehl after he retired and will now pass on the captaincy to a new player which will most likely be Marco Reus.

• Transfer rumor roundup

As per usual in the early days of summer new transfer rumors appear on a daily basis, some of them might be true but most of them will probably turn out to be fake. However that does not mean we can’t at least discuss, so let’s take a look:

Denis Zakaria - The 21-year-old Swiss international could move to BVB according to Sport Bild. The central midfielder from Borussia Mönchengladbach would be a perfect fit for BVB’s midfield and could give them some defensive stability as well as a spark on offense.

Abdou Diallo - In the same report Sport Bild also mention Diallo. The versatile defender, he can play centerback and left back, is an intruiging option for Dortmund and can cover two positions of need for the black and yellows.

Anthony Martial - This will most likely not happen but it’s still fun to think about it. Martial might not have a place at Manchester United as long as José Mourinho is calling the shots and they are willing to listen to offers (Daily Mail). The report claims the Premier League club wants to avoid selling him to one of their rivals which might make a transfer to BVB possible. He has been linked to Dortmund before, albeit in a questionable Pulisic for Martial swap-deal, but BVB should still just be considered outsider in the Martial-sweepstakes.

Dalbert - This is a Calciomercato rumor which generally uses more of a “throw at the wall and see what sticks approach” to transfer stories but this one does have some logic to it. BVB needs fullbacks and Dalbert has played for Favre in Nice in 2016/17. A solid option if Dortmund are really interested.

Josha Vagnoman - The 17-year-old left back made his debut at the end of the season and is considered to be one of Germany’s biggest talents at the position. According to ESPN BVB are one of several clubs interested in the HSV-player who’s current deal ends this summer and would be available on a free transfer.