Borussia Dortmund isn't regarded as one of the strongest European clubs at the moment and that's because of the club's transfer policy. The club has sold their best players over the years to other European clubs.
If the likes of Jadon Sancho, Erling Haaland and Jude Bellingham were still at the club, Dortmund would've probably be unplayable by now.
However they've been on a good form in the German Bundesliga this season as they're yet to lose a league game but would've definitely been better if they had those players I'm the squad.
Overall, that is the main factor that Dortmund always fails to dominate Bayern Munchen in the Bundesliga, even though last season they finished with the same number of points but they lost on goal difference. Regarding their transfer policy, I don't think they will change it and will continue to do it, I mean continue to sell their star players even to their eternal rival club Munchen. In line with you, if they don't release the names you mentioned, Dortmund has the opportunity to win a trophy either in the Bundesliga or in the UCL.
Even though they are unbeaten in seven matches, I see Laverkusen and VfB being better than Dortmund this season. It is true that the Bundesliga is more exciting at the moment, because the competition for the top four standings is tighter, however in terms of opportunities, it is difficult for Dortmund to challenge Munchen this season, in fact I think Laverkusen has a bigger chance than Dortmund.