Borussia Dortmund eyes Elias Baum as potential reinforcement

Borussia Dortmund has, according to Sky information, set its sights on 20‑year‑old right‑back Elias Baum from Eintracht Frankfurt. BVB official Ole Book, who knows Baum from their time together at SV Elversberg, sees him as a possible replacement for Yan Couto should the player depart. At the same time, the situation around the injured Nico Schlotterbeck remains critical.

Why Baum is attractive for Dortmund's defense

Baum impressed during Frankfurt's pre‑season and offers a blend of pace and defensive solidity. Ole Book recalls their collaboration at Elversberg, where Baum already stood out for his tackling ability. If Yan Couto leaves, Baum could slot straight into the starting XI and fill the gap created by Schlotterbeck's absence.

How current stats shape the transfer plan

In the final 2025 table Borussia Dortmund finished second in the Bundesliga with 64 points, 19 wins, 7 draws and 3 losses, and a recent form of L‑W‑W‑W‑W. The team scored 60 goals and conceded 29, a +31 goal difference. Despite this strong record, the club sits 12 points behind Bayern Munich. The next away fixture is against 1. FC Cologne on 13 January 2027, a direct rival sitting twelfth in the table.

What happens next?

Eintracht coach Adi Hütter still backs the young Baum, who has already made an impression in pre‑season. However, if he accepts Dortmund's offer, a move could materialise in the summer window. Until then, the situation in Dortmund's back line stays intriguing as Nico Schlotterbeck remains sidelined and the team searches for alternatives.

Outlook for the upcoming season

Signing Elias Baum could tighten Borussia Dortmund's defense while preserving financial flexibility. With a solid foundation from last season and the aim to close the gap on Bayern Munich, every addition is scrutinised. The coming weeks will decide whether Baum makes the leap to Dortmund.