Borussia Dortmund reject Club-Record Brentford bid for Maximilian Beier

Borussia Dortmund have turned down a club-record £45m bid from Brentford for Germany international Maximilian Beier, according to reports in Germany. The 22-year-old forward, who featured 46 times for Dortmund last season, scoring 10 goals and supplying six assists, has emerged as a leading target for the Premier League side.

Brentford, who lost Bryan Mbeumo earlier in the summer and face pressure to replace him, are searching urgently for firepower. Ivan Toney’s departure last year left a void that was never properly filled, while Yoane Wissa is now pushing for a move to Newcastle — compounding the Bees’ attacking crisis.

With the window closing on Monday evening, Brentford’s move for Beier signals intent. However, Dortmund’s firm stance means head coach Keith Andrews may be forced to pivot to other targets as the German club are unwilling to cash in. Can Brentford really afford to enter the season with such a weakened frontline?

Brentford’s attack is unrecognisable compared to two years ago. Mbeumo, who provided pace and goals from the right, has been sold, while Wissa’s desire to leave will further weaken the squad. The club’s hierarchy see Beier as the kind of versatile forward who could cover both central and wide roles.

Andrews has admitted Brentford must “add quality” to maintain their Premier League status. Without reinforcements, the Bees risk being dragged into a relegation scrap, particularly with their direct rivals strengthening in the market.

FootballPlace analyst John William believes Brentford’s situation is becoming desperate:

“Keith Andrews needs a striker who can hit the ground running. Beier would fit Brentford’s system — quick transitions, high work rate, adaptable in a front two or three. But Dortmund know his ceiling is much higher than £45m, and they don’t want to repeat past mistakes of selling too early.”

William added: “The worry for Brentford is that time is running out. Without another proven forward, they’ll be relying on scraps up front. Survival in the Premier League often comes down to goals — and right now, Brentford look short.”

Unless Brentford dramatically increase their offer — which sources say is unlikely — the Bees will need to move quickly for alternatives. Andrews and the recruitment team are understood to be scouring Europe for late-window options, with interest in Bundesliga and Ligue 1 strikers.

For Dortmund, the rejection sends a message: their young core is not for sale. Beier will remain central to their plans, and with Euro 2028 qualifiers coming up, his value may only rise. For Brentford, the clock is ticking — and the lack of a new striker could define their season.

Should Brentford go all-in on Beier with an improved offer, or spread funds on multiple cheaper options before the deadline?