Borussia Dortmund have confirmed that centre-back Aaron Anselmino has left the club and returned to Chelsea with immediate effect, bringing an early end to his loan spell in Germany.
Softfootball understands that Anselmino joined Dortmund on loan from Chelsea during the summer window, with the move aimed at helping the young defender gain regular top-level experience. However, Chelsea have now opted to recall the defender late in the winter transfer window as they look to address their growing defensive depth issues, following injuries and inconsistencies at the back.
In a statement shared via their official X handle, Dortmund announced:
Centre-back Aaron Anselmino is leaving Borussia Dortmund and will return to Chelsea FC with immediate effect.
Thank you, Aaron, for your time at BVB and all the best for your future!
The recall suggests Chelsea are keen to reinforce internally rather than rush into multiple signings, with Anselmino now expected to compete for minutes or provide squad cover as the season intensifies.
Borussia Dortmund via it’s official X handle, shared an emotional goodbye video of the player embracing his teammates and coaching staffs one last time before heading back to the bridge. They posted:
Meanwhile, Dortmund’s window appears to be going from bad to worse. The Bundesliga side are also on the verge of missing out on Oscar Bobb, with Fulham closing in on a £35m deal for the Manchester City winger. Dortmund had been in talks with City earlier in the window over a potential move, especially after Antoine Semenyo was confirmed as a new Manchester City signing, which opened the door for Bobb’s possible exit.
With Anselmino returning to Chelsea and Bobb seemingly heading elsewhere, Dortmund now face a challenging end to the transfer window as they scramble to adjust their plans and reinforce their squad.
