Dortmund Consider Selling Justin Lerma Amid Playing-Time Roadblock

Borussia Dortmund are reportedly considering selling Ecuadorian youngster Justin Lerma during the January 2027 transfer window, with the 18-year-old facing limited opportunities to gain regular playing time. The situation has become increasingly complicated because of employment regulations that appear to prevent Lerma from featuring for Dortmund's reserve side in the Regionalliga West, leaving him with even fewer chances to develop through competitive matches.

Lerma's situation also affects his prospects with the senior team. The teenager was unable to make a strong impression during Dortmund's 2026/27 pre-season campaign, further reducing his chances of breaking into the first-team squad. With limited opportunities at both reserve and senior level, Dortmund could now be prepared to move the youngster on rather than allow him to remain without consistent competitive football.

Before any potential transfer can take place, however, Dortmund must first focus on Lerma's recovery from a muscle injury. Selling an injured player could make negotiations more difficult and potentially reduce the number of clubs willing to pursue him. The German club therefore has an incentive to ensure the youngster receives proper treatment and returns to full fitness before deciding on his future.

Lerma still has a long-term contract with Dortmund running until the summer of 2031. Despite his lack of opportunities, the Ecuadorian remains a significant investment for the club, with Transfermarkt currently valuing him at around €3.2 million, equivalent to approximately Rp65.3 billion. His lengthy contract also gives Dortmund considerable control over any potential transfer negotiations.

Dortmund signed Lerma from Ecuadorian club Independiente in the summer of 2026 for a reported €4 million, or around Rp81.7 billion. His potential departure only months after arriving would therefore represent a major change in plans for a player initially viewed as a promising long-term prospect. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Lerma can overcome his injury and playing-time problems or whether Dortmund ultimately decide that a January transfer is the best solution.