SEbastien Haller secures a permanent move to Utrecht - Sebastien Haller makes a permanent transfer to Utrecht
Sébastien Haller Returns to FC Utrecht on a Permanent Basis
Sébastien Haller, the 31-year-old striker, has completed a permanent transfer from Borussia Dortmund to FC Utrecht, signing a contract until 2026. This move comes after his loan spell at Utrecht earlier in 2025 and represents a return to the Dutch club on a free transfer, following the mutual termination of his contract with Dortmund, originally set to run until 2026, with a reported severance payment of €4-5 million.
The one-year deal signed by Haller is confirmed to run through 2026, providing him a long-term commitment with Utrecht where he had previously enjoyed success. The clubs and player agreed on this arrangement to finalize his future ahead of the transfer window closure. Haller described this permanent return to Utrecht as the "ideal scenario," emphasizing continuity and renewed opportunity.
Borussia Dortmund’s sporting director Sebastian Kehl acknowledged Haller’s inspiring battle with cancer during his Dortmund tenure and wished him well in his future with Utrecht. The transfer marks a full circle for Haller, returning permanently to a familiar club where he had made a significant impact during previous spells.
Before joining Borussia Dortmund in 2022, Haller played for Eintracht Frankfurt from 2017 to 2019. Prior to that, he played for FC Utrecht from 2015 to 2017. In 2022, Haller joined Borussia Dortmund from Ajax Amsterdam. During his time with Dortmund, he made 33 league appearances, scoring nine goals.
In January 2023, Haller returned to the pitch after battling cancer, which was diagnosed in July 2022. The details of the severance package between Haller and Borussia Dortmund are not specified. Media reports suggest that Dortmund will pay Haller a severance to save on his salary.
Sources:
- Borussia Dortmund confirm Sébastien Haller's departure
- Sébastien Haller signs for FC Utrecht on permanent deal
- Sébastien Haller: Borussia Dortmund terminate contract with striker
- Sébastien Haller's return to FC Utrecht confirmed
During his years with FC Utrecht, Sébastien Haller excelled not only in football, vaunting his skills on the pitch, but also in vocational training, recreating a successful balance between sports and education. As he returns to the Dutch club on a permanent basis, this arrangement offers him the chance to continue this pursuit, combining his passion for soccer and personal development.
