Hans-Joachim Watzke believes players in the Bundesliga have to decide whether or not they want to take themselves to the brink both physically and mentally.

As Borussia Dortmund stars Mats Hummels and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang continue to be linked with the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal, Watzke has warned the Dortmund aces that they face being completely rinsed in the Premier League due to the hectic scheduling of England's top flight.

Regarding the rumours of his star pair leaving Dortmund, Watzke suggested they would be put through the ringer if they were to leave the Westfalenstadion for a top club in the UK.

"The players are squeezed there, often like a lemon. They are given hardly any rhythm in their game," he told Bild.

"Professionals who reflect on something more than just what arrives at the end of the month in their pursue will take this into account when making a decision."

Watzke also suggests that the standard of the Premier League has not improved in recent times, further warning his players of a potential shift.

"If you would judge on the amount of salary it would always be a difficult race to win [for the Bundesliga]," he added.

"But it's not. I have watched a lot of Premier League football over the Christmas holidays.

"I do not feel that the level is increased there, especially considering how the expenditures have risen."