We are still two months away from the Winter Transfer Window but that does not mean it is too early for a transfer rumor or two. Borussia Dortmund garnered a reputation for developing young talent in the past
decade, but recent years have seen few success stories of relatively unknown talent plying their trade in Dortmund. It appears that Sebastian Kehl and company are now looking to South America to reinvigorate their talent search. In recent weeks, the club has been linked to two different talents with a third player already slated to join the club in January
Justin Lerma
In 2024, Borussia Dortmund shocked most fans when they announced the 4-million-euro transfer of Justin Lerma from Ecuador. After what will be two years of waiting, Lerma will be joining Dortmund in the 2026 January window after hist 18th birthday. The 17-year-old plays as a more creative midfielder, typically as a ‘number 8’ or ‘number 10’. Little data is available on how well Lerma is doing at his current club, Independiente de Valle, but he is yet to gain a permanent spot in the senior team and has been alternating between the training and senior squads. Lerma has, however, earned a spot in Ecuador’s U-20 side after promising performances in the U-17 South American Championship.
It seems that his transfer to Dortmund has hurt him at club level with Independiente de Valle unwilling to develop a talent they will not retain but many of his coaches have come out and agreed that Lerma is the real deal. It will likely take time for Lerma to adapt to the Bundesliga’s level but we can all remain cautiously optimistic.
Kaua Prates
The newest name that Dortmund have been linked with is Kaua Prates from Cruzeiro in Brazil’s Serie A. Prates is a more defensive left-back who has done well to help close out games. He’s far from the attacking full-backs that steal modern football’s headlines, but his potential is undoubtable. Unlike Lerma, Prates has broken into the first-team as a substitute and is making waves for international scouts. The issue for Dortmund, however, is Prate’s contract until 2027 and $35 million release clause.
Juan Cruz Meza
Meza falls closer to Lerma than he does Prates. He has only made two appearances for the Argentine giants , River Plate, but is one of the best players for the reserve team. Meza is an attacking midfielder who has featured for both the Argentine U-17 and Argentine U-18. Unlike Prates, the economics surrounding his sale are more enticing. His contract ends in 2026 and if Dortmund are willing to pay anything in January, they are in poll position.
Your Thoughts
Should Dortmund scout more in South America? Do we need more midfielders? What is your favorite color?
