Borussia Dortmund submit opening offer for Ajax midfielder Edson Alvarez

Borussia Dortmund have stepped up their efforts for summer target Edson Alvarez after submitting their opening offer, according to Sky Sports Germany.

The Bundesliga runners-up have earmarked Alvarez as the replacement for Jude Bellingham, who has completed his move to Real Madrid.

The Mexican midfielder has also given his nod, as he only wants Die Borussen as his next destination.

However, there is a major hurdle regarding transfer fee as the Eredivisie giants are demanding around €50 million for Alvarez.

Dortmund consider the figure too steep, although they are set to pocket a guaranteed €100m from Bellingham’s departure.

Die Borussen are pondering whether to splurge the cash, and they could soon open negotiations with Ajax.

Bayern Munich and West Ham United have also been registered with an interest in Alvarez though Dortmund would be undeterred since the midfielder is keen on moving to Signal Iduna Park.

Alvarez, 25, has been a key cog in Ajax’s midfield since his transfer from Club America in 2019, making more than 100 appearances for the Dutch giants and winning two Eredivisie trophies and a KNVB Cup.

He tried to force out a move to Premier League giants Chelsea last summer but to no avail in the end.

Dortmund striker Sebastien Haller is said to be in constant dialogue with his former Ajax teammate to lure him to Germany.

Edin Terzic’s side are also out of contention to sign Ilkay Gundogan, who has rejected the offer to return to his former club.

Raphael Guerreiro has also left the club in favour of a move to arch-rivals Bayern Munich, while there is fear among Dortmund fans, with Real Madrid targeting Karim Adeyemi.