In the summer of 2023, Borussia Dortmund expressed interest in Bella-Kotchap and reportedly made an offer of around 25 million euros. However, Southampton turned down the transfer. Bella-Kotchap disclosed that the interest from Dortmund, as well as from FC Bayern, was very serious, with Dortmund's Sebastian Kehl being particularly earnest in his pursuit. Despite the tempting offers, Southampton opted against the transfer. Bella-Kotchap conveyed that playing for top clubs like Dortmund and Bayern continues to be a dream for him, following the near transfer which Southampton ultimately blocked.