Nicolo Tresoldi: The Rising Star Who Loves «Ugly Goals» – BVB’s First Transfer Under Ole Book?

Nicolo Tresoldi, a German U21 international, is a highly sought-after talent eligible for three national teams. Rumors suggest he might be considering a move this summer, prompting questions about his international future and potential interest from Borussia Dortmund.

The competition for multi-national talents increasingly mirrors a transfer market, with various federations vying for players. Recently, reports suggested Argentina contacted Tresoldi’s representatives, adding to Germany and Italy in the race for his allegiance. Tresoldi himself light-heartedly commented on the situation, noting the three nations collectively boast eleven World Cup titles.

He previously expressed openness to a call from then-Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso, stating, «My phone is on. If Gattuso wants to speak with me, I would be very happy.» However, Gattuso’s future with the Italian national team is now uncertain after their recent qualification struggles. Even so, any future Italy coach would likely consider Tresoldi given the country’s need for strikers.

Tresoldi Feels Valued by the DFB

Born in Cagliari, Italy, and raised in Gubbio, Umbria, Tresoldi moved to Germany with his family at age 13 due to his mother’s job. His father, Emanuele, was a professional footballer who won the U21 European Championship with Italy in 1994, alongside future World Cup winners Fabio Cannavaro and Tresoldi’s childhood idol Filippo Inzaghi. At Hannover 96, Tresoldi progressed through the youth ranks, making his second-division debut at 17 in 2022. He subsequently obtained German citizenship and received his first call-up to the DFB’s U19 squad.

Tresoldi has stated he felt highly valued by the German federation from the start, which presented a clear pathway for him. In contrast, he mentioned never hearing anything from the Italian federation.

Tresoldi, a Fan of «Ugly Goals» and a Shooting Star at Club Brugge

The situation with the Italian federation seemingly remains unchanged, despite reports of scouts observing him. No direct contact with Gattuso, who often played with two classic central strikers in the recent, failed World Cup qualifiers, has been reported.

Following his €7.5 million transfer from Hannover 96 to the Belgian vice-champion Club Brugge, Tresoldi rapidly established himself as a key player. He recently scored seven goals in seven league matches and has amassed 17 goals and 5 assists this season, helping Brugge compete for the championship. He also netted in the Champions League against prominent clubs like Monaco, Barcelona, and Atlético Madrid.

His performance for the German U21 national team is equally impressive, with six goals in seven European Championship qualifiers, including a recent brace in a 3-0 victory against Northern Ireland. Tresoldi describes his strengths as being within the penalty area, possessing a good sense for space. While he admits he doesn’t dribble past multiple defenders or score spectacular long-range goals, he excels at link-up play, holding the ball, and scoring what he calls «ugly goals» from a few meters out – those that might not make highlight reels but are crucial.

BVB Interest in Tresoldi if Guirassy Departs? He Fits Book’s Profile

Tresoldi’s impressive form has naturally drawn attention from the broader transfer market. Reports indicate his management is already in discussions with clubs from Spain, Italy, and Germany regarding a potential summer transfer, with an estimated fee between €25-30 million. Among the named concrete suitors are Arsenal, Tottenham, Borussia Dortmund, and Bayer 04 Leverkusen.

Borussia Dortmund, in particular, could have a vacancy at striker if Serhou Guirassy departs. While they have Fabio Silva, his goal-scoring record hasn’t been significant (1 goal, 5 assists). Tresoldi’s profile would thus be a much-needed alternative and aligns with the potential strategy of new sporting director Ole Book. A challenge for BVB, however, is their reportedly limited transfer budget.

Bayer Leverkusen could also develop a need in the striking department, especially if a key player’s agent openly discusses interest from numerous top clubs, including Arsenal, as recently suggested. Tresoldi himself has expressed a personal dream of playing for AC Milan in Italy, stating it’s the ambition that drives him daily. «I feel very comfortable in Brugge and know that I still have a long way to go. But the dream of playing for Milan is there, in my head. I think about it every morning after waking up.»

Nagelsmann Hasn’t Called Him Yet: Will Tresoldi Catch the World Cup Train?

Meanwhile, in the German national team context, a potential competitor, Niclas Füllkrug (33), is having a difficult loan spell at Milan, diminishing his World Cup hopes. Similarly, Tim Kleindienst (30) is experiencing an injury-plagued period. This situation potentially opens a path for Tresoldi to fill the role of a classic central striker in the DFB squad. While Kai Havertz (26) and Nick Woltemade (24) are currently ahead of him, Tresoldi’s profile, impressive goal-scoring record for Club Brugge and the U21s, combined with the age and injury concerns of other rivals, should make him a serious consideration for Julian Nagelsmann’s plans.

If the national coach’s call doesn’t come soon, the DFB risks losing another significant talent, a scenario seen too often in recent years with players like Fisnik Asllani (now playing for Kosovo), Ibrahim Maza (Algeria), Kenan Yilmaz (Turkey), and Josip Stanisic (Croatia), who could have addressed key positions for Germany.

The German offensive lineup for the World Cup is strong with Havertz, Woltemade, Undav, Florian Wirtz, Serge Gnabry, and the anticipated return of Jamal Musiala. However, Nagelsmann has emphasized wanting a striker who can «handle things in the air» when the team needs a goal and «can’t solve everything with the wizards behind because the opponent defends so deep.» While Tresoldi isn’t primarily known for his heading ability, he has scored seven headers for Hannover and Brugge, demonstrating he can contribute in this area. Crucially, Nagelsmann currently has very few other alternatives fitting this specific profile.

Tresoldi’s phone, it seems, is ready – for the national coach, other federations, and new clubs alike. Regardless of a World Cup call-up, the 21-year-old faces an exciting summer that could see him return to Germany or move closer to his dream destination: Milan, Italy.

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