Borussia Dortmund’s pursuit of Manchester City winger Oscar Bobb has hit a significant roadblock, with reports from Germany suggesting the Bundesliga giants are hesitating over the financial structure of the deal.
The 22-year-old Norwegian appeared destined for Signal Iduna Park earlier this week, with City keen to clear space in their squad ahead of the widely anticipated arrival of Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth. However, negotiations have stalled at the eleventh hour, leaving Bobb’s short-term future in limbo.
According to reports circulating in Germany, Dortmund hierarchy are balking at the "total package" required to secure the winger. While the deal was initially framed as a six-month loan with an option to buy, the combination of the loan fee, Bobb’s wages, and the future purchase clause—rumoured to be set at €30 million (£25m)—has caused the German club to pause.
The Semenyo Domino Effect
For Manchester City, the delay is a frustration they can ill afford. Pep Guardiola is reportedly eager to trim the fringes of his squad to facilitate the ÂŁ65 million signing of Semenyo, who is viewed as a more robust, direct option for the title run-in.
Bobb, who recovered from a serious leg fracture last season, has found minutes hard to come by in the current campaign. With Savinho and Jérémy Doku firmly ahead of him in the pecking order, and Semenyo’s arrival imminent, the academy graduate knows he must leave the Etihad this month to salvage his season.
Premier League Clubs on Alert
Dortmund’s hesitation has opened the door for domestic suitors. Crystal Palace and Newcastle United are both long-term admirers of the player and are monitoring the situation closely. Palace, in particular, are looking for reinforcements following the sale of Michael Olise (in previous seasons) and could offer Bobb the guaranteed Premier League minutes he craves.
You can track the shifting market sentiment on the Oscar Bobb transfer odds page, where Dortmund remain favourites but are drifting fast.
Why the Deal Could Still Collapse
Beyond the finances, there is a squad registration issue at Dortmund. Sources suggest the German side need to move on either Julien Duranville or Cole Campbell to free up a spot in their attacking rotation. Until those exits are confirmed, they cannot formally sanction the Bobb deal.
For a player of Bobb's technical quality—often compared to a young David Silva—sitting in the stands is not an option. If Dortmund cannot resolve their internal issues within the next 48 hours, City are expected to pivot and offer him to Premier League rivals.
For more on City's busy window, including the latest on the Guehi and Semenyo deals, visit the Man City club hub.
What Happens Next?
Bobb’s camp is reportedly pushing for a resolution before the weekend. If Dortmund do not return with a revised offer by Friday, expect Newcastle or Palace to lodge formal loan bids. City prefer a permanent sale or a loan with a mandatory purchase, but the ticking clock may force them to accept a straight loan to get his wages off the books.