Emmanuel Fernandez: Key reason Dortmund are stalling on move for Super Eagles CB

Emmanuel Fernandez could still leave Rangers this summer but Borussia Dortmund’s pursuit of the Super Eagles centre-back has slowed despite months of interest, Afrik-Foot reports.

The German club has been tracking the Rangers defender since the start of 2026 after several scouting missions to Scotland. Fernandez impressed during his first full season at Ibrox following his €2.9 million move from Peterborough United in the summer of 2025.

The 24-year-old quickly established himself as one of Rangers’ most important players, combining his commanding 1.98m frame with strong tackling, calm distribution and a growing threat from set-pieces. His performances also earned him recognition at international level after switching allegiance to Nigeria, where he marked his early appearances with a goal against Jordan.

Dortmund initially viewed Fernandez as a possible solution to their defensive plans following the departure of veteran centre-back Niklas Süle. However, developments inside the Bundesliga club have complicated a potential deal.

Emmanuel Fernandez: Dortmund waiting for centre-back exit before making move

While Dortmund remain admirers of Emmanuel Fernandez, reports in Germany indicate that the club is unlikely to make a formal move unless one of their current right-footed centre-backs leaves Signal Iduna Park.

The arrival of highly-rated defender Joane Gadou has already filled the vacancy created by Süle’s exit. Dortmund’s squad currently includes Waldemar Anton, Emre Can, Filippo Mané and emerging Italian defender Luca Reggiani, all of whom operate primarily on the right side of central defence.

As a result, sporting officials believe another defender can only be added if there is first an outgoing transfer.

Reggiani’s future had briefly attracted attention from Inter Milan after the youngster enjoyed a breakthrough campaign that saw him make nine senior appearances and earn his first Italy call-up. However, Dortmund are reluctant to sell the defender after handing him a new contract earlier this year.

That situation has effectively placed Fernandez’s potential move on hold for now.

Even if Dortmund create space in their squad, Rangers are expected to demand a significant fee. The Scottish giants have the Nigeria international tied down until June 2029 and are reportedly valuing him between £25 million and £35 million. Peterborough United are also entitled to a sell-on percentage, further increasing Rangers’ asking price.

Dortmund are also facing competition from fellow Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen, while Premier League clubs Arsenal and Chelsea have been linked with monitoring the defender’s progress.

At the moment, Fernandez remains firmly on Dortmund’s shortlist, but unless a current centre-back departs, the Bundesliga giants are expected to delay any serious move for the Rangers and Super Eagles star.