Milan and Borussia Dortmund Battle for Genk’s Karetsas, Set Sights on Hojbjerg

FolioPitch.com – 19 July 2026 | AC Milan are intensifying their summer transfer campaign as they rival Borussia Dortmund for highly rated Genk midfielder Konstantinos Karetsas and simultaneously target Marseille’s Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg. According to multiple sources in Italy, the Rossoneri have identified Karetsas as a primary attacking midfield reinforcement, but face stiff competition from the Bundesliga side.

The saga surrounding Milan rival Borussia Dortmund for Karetsas and target Hojbjerg has dominated transfer headlines this week. Karetsas, a Greece international, has impressed in the Belgian Pro League and UEFA Europa League, attracting attention from top European clubs. Fabrizio Romano and Matteo Moretto report that Milan have initiated talks with the player’s representatives, though no formal offer has been submitted to Genk. Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund have already made a €25 million bid for the 18-year-old, which was rejected, with Genk holding out for at least €35 million.

Milan rival Borussia Dortmund for Karetsas and target Hojbjerg as part of a broader strategy to strengthen under new coach Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese tactician, who took over in the summer, has already secured the signings of Gonçalo Ramos and Mario Gila, but is eager to add more creativity and defensive steel to his squad. Karetsas fits the profile of an attacking midfielder with excellent dribbling and vision, while Hojbjerg offers experience and physicality in the middle of the park.

Regarding Hojbjerg, Sky Sport’s Gianluca Di Marzio states that the Danish international is on the market, and Milan are monitoring his situation at Marseille. However, the Rossoneri are in no rush to make an offer, as Amorim wants to thoroughly evaluate his current options before dipping into the transfer market. Hojbjerg, formerly of Tottenham Hotspur, has a wealth of Premier League and international experience, making him an attractive prospect for Milan.

The competition between Milan and Dortmund for Karetsas adds an intriguing subplot. Both clubs are known for developing young talent, and Karetsas could see regular playing time at either destination. Dortmund’s history of nurturing stars like Erling Haaland and Jude Bellingham may give them an edge, but Milan’s project under Amorim and the allure of Serie A could sway the player. As Milan rival Borussia Dortmund for Karetsas and target Hojbjerg, the coming weeks will be crucial for the Italian side’s transfer plans.

Genk’s stance is clear: they will not sell Karetsas for less than €35 million. Dortmund’s initial rejection suggests they may return with an improved offer, while Milan must decide whether to match or exceed that valuation. The Rossoneri’s financial situation, combined with other potential targets, could influence their approach. For Hojbjerg, Marseille are open to negotiations, but the player’s wages and transfer fee might be a hurdle. Milan are reportedly cautious, preferring to assess their squad deeper before committing.

In conclusion, Milan’s summer transfer window is shaping up to be a busy one. The dual pursuit of Karetsas and Hojbjerg demonstrates the club’s ambition to build a competitive squad for the 2026-27 season. However, with Dortmund also in the race for the Greek youngster, the outcome remains uncertain. Fans will be watching closely as the transfer saga unfolds.