Chelsea tried pulling a fast one ahead of the Club World Cup, placing a cheeky £42 million bid for Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Bynoe-Gittens. But the German giants weren’t impressed and definitely weren’t in the mood to negotiate.
Lars Ricken, BVB’s managing director and proud protector of all things yellow and black, confirmed the Blues’ offer to Sky Sports Germany, but also explained why it was a straight-up “Thanks, but no thanks.”
“There was an offer, yes but it came far too late,” said Ricken. “We had no time to react, no chance to find a replacement, and frankly, we don’t do fire sales. Especially not with someone like Jamie.”
Translation? You don’t just roll up to Dortmund’s door with a last-minute cheque and expect to walk away with one of their brightest young stars.
Gittens: Young, English, and Absolutely Flying
The 20-year-old winger isn’t just some random wonderkid, he’s been balling out in the Bundesliga. Gittens made 32 league appearances in the 2024-25 season, bagging 8 goals, double what he’d managed in his previous three years combined.
He also led Dortmund in both attempted (160) and completed (77) dribbles. Basically, every time he touched the ball, full-backs started praying. He even created 21 chances, proving he’s not just flashy, he’s functional.
No wonder Chelsea saw him as a Champions League-level reinforcement for 2025-26. But Dortmund? They see a long-term weapon.
Professional, Loyal But For How Long?
Despite the failed move, Ricken was full of praise for Gittens’ attitude:
“He’s handled everything professionally. He’s committed to the club, gives everything on the pitch, and shows every day that he’s here to help Dortmund succeed.”
But let’s not pretend this story’s over. Chelsea sniffed around once, and they’ll likely be back. And if Gittens keeps turning defenders into cones, Dortmund might not be able to hold out forever.
Valuation vs. Timing: The BVB Way
Dortmund’s stance is classic BVB. They don’t mind selling, see Sancho, Bellingham, Haaland but only when the deal’s right, and the timing is on their terms.
“A transfer has to make sense for the player, the buying club, and us. We won’t sell below value, not even close,” Ricken said.
So, what’s next? Chelsea could return with a better offer in the summer, or another top club might swoop in. Until then, Jamie Gittens stays in yellow and Bundesliga defenders stay nervous.
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