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Fury as fans stage pyro-lit protest outside stadium after European club sanctions £27m transfer

Fury as fans stage pyro-lit protest outside stadium after European club sanctions £27m transfer
PAOK fans during a Europa League 3rd Qualifying Round match vs Anderlecht - Photo via IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire

PAOK supporters have staged a protest outside the club's stadium following reports that Giannis Konstantelias is set to leave for Borussia Dortmund.

The Greek club's fans are furious at the impending departure of one of their key players, with tensions rising as the transfer edges closer to completion.

PAOK fans unhappy with Giannis Konstantelias sale to Borussia Dortmund

PAOK supporters gathered outside the Toumba Stadium with pyrotechnics after reports emerged that Konstantelias' move to Borussia Dortmund had been finalised.

A banner reading “Occupation” was also displayed outside the club offices, with supporters reportedly demanding direct contact with owner Ivan Savvidis and an explanation over the decision to sanction the transfer.

Konstantelias is reportedly already in Dortmund to complete his medical, with Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg and Greek media outlets among those reporting that the deal is close to completion.

Dortmund are expected to pay €32 million (£27 million) including bonuses, while PAOK will also retain a 15 per cent sell-on clause.

The transfer has caused particular frustration among PAOK supporters because Konstantelias was also close to leaving the club last summer.

PAOK had agreed a €20 million (£17 million) deal with VfB Stuttgart before Savvidis reportedly intervened and blocked the move amid concerns over the reaction from supporters.

This time, however, Dortmund's pursuit appears to have reached the final stages, with Fabrizio Romano also giving the transfer his “Here we go” confirmation.

The anger has extended beyond the stadium, with a prominent PAOK ultras account calling for the club not to sanction the sale.

Konstantelias was also approached by a suspected PAOK supporter after arriving in Dortmund, with the player appearing to discuss his departure from Greece during the unusual exchange.

FGG says: PAOK fans have every right to be frustrated

Losing a player of Konstantelias' importance will always hurt, particularly when supporters feel the club could have done more to keep him.

That said, £27 million is a significant fee for a club like PAOK and the 15 per cent sell-on clause could prove valuable if Konstantelias develops into the player Dortmund expect.

The protest shows just how highly PAOK fans value him, but the club will ultimately be judged on what it does with the money and how effectively it replaces him.

Lewis joined as News and Features Editor in July 2025, having previously held senior roles at Snack Media and GRV Media. A passionate follower of sport, in particular football and golf, as well as a proud Aldershot Town supporter, he brings over six years of experience in the digital sports publishing space.

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