Article by Sebastian Vasile – Published Wednesday, May 13, 2026, 2:21 p.m. / Updated Wednesday, May 13, 2026, 2:35 p.m.
Borussia Dortmund have officially announced the signing of French centre-back Joane Gadou from Austrian champions RB Salzburg. The talented 19-year-old player signed a contract with the “yellow and black” on Tuesday until 2031.
According to the information, Dortmund will pay a transfer fee of 19.5 million euros, to which 4.5 million euros are added in the form of bonuses. RB Salzburg will receive 10% of any future transfer fee.
Borussia Dortmund announced the first signing of the summer: Joane Gadou
Gadou is a product of Paris Saint-Germain's academy, with whose U19 team won the title of French champion in 2024. In September of the same year, the tall defender of 1.95 meters he transferred to FC Salzburg for 10 million euros.
Joan Gadou. Photo: Imago
For the first team of the Austrians, he registered a total of 58 official matches. Added to these are five games in the UEFA Youth League, as well as one match in the Austrian second division for satellite team FC Liefering.
From 2022, Gadou came through France's national junior teams. In 2023, he became European vice-champion with the U17 teamand at the next year's tournament he led his team as captain.
12 million eurosis Joane Gadou's market share according to transfermarkt.com
Lars Ricken, sporting director of Borussia Dortmund: “We are convinced of his qualities”
Joane Gadou himself said: “I am extremely happy that in the future I will be part of the Borussia Dortmund family and I can't wait to wear the black and yellow jersey for the first time. Together with my teammates, the whole club and our incredible fans, I want to achieve success in the years to come.”
Joane Gadou, with Ole Book and Lars Ricken (Borussia Dortmund officials). Photo: Instagram
The sporting director of Borussia Dortmund, Lars Ricken, also commented on the transfer: “We have known Joane for a very long time and have followed him since his time at Paris Saint-Germain. Joane will strengthen us and take on an important role in the team from the start of the new season. We are convinced of his qualities and see in him enormous potential for sporting development.”
VIDEO. Joane Gadou, the first acquisition of the summer for Borussia Dortmund
