BVB signs talented striker Wüstenhagen: The next big hope!
Borussia Dortmund signs 19-year-old striker Bennedikt Wüstenhagen from BFC Dynamo to the U23 team until 2028.

BVB signs talented striker Wüstenhagen: The next big hope!
On June 17, 2025, Borussia Dortmund signed a new striker: Bennedikt Wüstenhagen is moving from BFC Dynamo to BVB's U23. The 19-year-old, who stands at an impressive 1.95 meters tall, has signed a long-term contract until 2028. This signing is causing excitement because Wüstenhagen is considered one of the most promising talents on the German football market.
The young player has spent the last seven years in the youth department of BFC Dynamo. In his debut season in the regional league, he scored a total of six goals in 27 games and also prepared six more goals. This record gives those responsible at BVB optimistic hope for a fruitful chapter with Wüstenhagen. “He has great physique, speed and character,” emphasizes Ingo Preuß, the sporting director of the BVB U23.
New arrivals and talents in focus
Wüstenhagen is the second external newcomer for the U23 this year, previously Arne Wessels was signed, who was brought into the team for six months. Especially in view of the fact that Borussia Dortmund has promoted a total of six talents from its own youth ranks, the question arises as to how Wüstenhagen's signing will influence the club's youth work. Even if there are high hopes, there are also critical voices, such as concerns that the signing of external talent could make space for our own young players tight, which is questioned by many fans and experts.
Reports point to the challenges that have arisen for the U23s following relegation with the coaching change around six to seven weeks ago. The new coach is faced with the task of recruiting enough talent without being able to take advantage of the transfer window. So far, the team only has one striker in the squad. However, Wüstenhagen brings experience from the men's division, which many of the other youth players cannot yet demonstrate.
Talent sightings in Germany
In order to bring talented players like Wüstenhagen to the big stages of football, the German Football Association (DFB) is relying on an extensive talent development program. This program aims to systematically discover talent and provide them with the necessary support. With 339 bases throughout Germany, around 14,000 players in the prime learning age are spotted and supported. The talents receive additional training every week to further develop their skills and increase their chances of a career in professional football.
It remains to be seen how Wüstenhagen's signing will affect Borussia Dortmund's U23s. It is clear that the club has a good knack for talent and further signings could potentially follow in the coming weeks. The fans can be curious to see whether the young striker can justify their trust and lead Dortmund's U23 back on the road to success.
For more information about Wüstenhagen's move and its background, click here. Further details on talent promotion can be found here and you can find out more about the DFB talent promotion program here.