Julian Brandt believes he can achieve “something big” with Borussia Dortmund after ignoring other players’ interest in signing a new three-year contract.
The Germany international has shone in his role as an attacking midfielder this season, playing a huge role in a title challenge that could be over.
Brandt, who turns 27 in May, signed his final contract on Tuesday, ending the prospect of him leaving on a free transfer at the end of next season.
Liverpool and Arsenal are among the teams that have been linked with Brandt in recent weeks, which comes as no surprise given his strong campaign.
Only three midfielders in the Bundesliga have created more chances this season than Brandt (57), leaving him 30 ahead of his closest midfield colleague Jude Bellingham (27).
Brandt has eight goals and four assists in the league, and his 12 goals are also the benchmark for Dortmund midfielders, two ahead of Marco Reus and four ahead of Bellingham.
He has made 164 passes, including crosses, into the opposition box, which is far more than any Dortmund player, and the threat from the flanks makes him a valuable asset.
Considering that he made 931 passes in total, on average more than one in six passes came in the penalty area (18%).
We are ready pic.twitter.com/BzMOid0B3R
— Borussia Dortmund (@BlackYellow) April 11, 2023
With continued uncertainty over Bellingham’s future as clubs keep their eyes on the England international, Dortmund have made sure to tie up former Bayer Leverkusen star Brandt on new terms.
Brandt said: “Even after four years, I still enjoy every single day being a part of this particular team, getting on the field with these guys and playing football for this very emotional club with its extraordinary supporters.
“Honestly, the feeling of being in the right place at the right time has always been the most important moment in my sporting life. And that won’t change either. I’m looking forward to the coming years in black and yellow and I’m sure we’ll have the opportunity to celebrate something big together.”
Dortmund announced the extension on their website, calling it “a key element of mid-term roster planning”, with sporting director Sebastian Kehl saying that Brandt “underwent another huge development last year, significantly more focused on his playoffs.” ball, regularly scores goals and shines as a goalscorer.”