Milan’s Strategy vs Dortmund’s Pursuit for Konstantinos Karetsas

Ruben Amorim has picked up the phone. Borussia Dortmund have picked up the pace.

The race for Konstantinos Karetsas, KRC Genk’s 18-year-old playmaker, is turning into a straight fight between Milan and the Bundesliga club, with the approaches of the two giants sharply contrasting.

Dortmund have gone straight to the table. According to Belgian outlet HLN, they have already held several rounds of talks with Genk and are back in discussions again today. Their opening proposal – €30 million plus €5 million in add-ons – did not move the Belgian side, who value the Greece international at around €40 million including bonuses.

The message from Genk is clear: pay the price, or look elsewhere.

Milan, for now, are playing a different game. Rather than matching Dortmund stride for stride in negotiations, they have moved first on the human side. The same Belgian reports state that Amorim personally called Karetsas, laying out his vision for how the teenager would fit into his project at San Siro.

No intermediaries. No broad promises. A coach speaking directly to a player he wants to build around.

The strategy is obvious. While Dortmund push to close a deal with Genk, Milan are trying to win the player’s heart and buy themselves time. Amorim is said to be urging Karetsas to wait, to hold off committing while Milan work on outgoing transfers that would free up the funds to “go all in” on him.

It is a delicate balance. On one side, a club renowned for giving young talents immediate responsibility and a clear development path, already putting real money on the table. On the other, a European heavyweight asking for patience, but offering the lure of San Siro and a central role in a new cycle under a new coach.

Genk, meanwhile, can afford to be patient. An 18-year-old creative midfielder, already a full Greece international and valued at around €40 million, is not a profile they will let go cheaply, especially with two major clubs circling.

Dortmund’s intent is unmistakable: they want to get this done quickly. Milan’s intent is just as strong, but their room for manoeuvre depends on sales before they can match the financial demands.

For Karetsas, the choice might soon be stark. Immediate clarity with Dortmund, or a calculated wait for Milan to make their move.