Real Madrid has reportedly accepted that Liverpool is set to win the race for Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck.
The 25-year-old has become one of the standout centre-backs in the Bundesliga, and his performances have placed him high on the wish list of several European heavyweights ahead of next summer’s transfer window.
Liverpool’s Defensive Situation Sparks Urgency
Liverpool’s interest in strengthening their backline has grown following a series of defensive setbacks. The club failed to complete a deal for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi before the transfer deadline in September, a move that has since looked costly.
Matters worsened when summer signing Giovanni Leoni suffered a season-ending injury last month, leaving Jurgen Klopp with only Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, and Joe Gomez as senior central defenders until at least January.
The Reds’ defensive depth is now under scrutiny. Van Dijk, the captain and leader of the backline, is 34 and entering the twilight of his career.
Konate’s contract is running down, while Gomez came close to departing on deadline day. It is clear Liverpool will need long-term reinforcement, and Schlotterbeck’s profile fits the bill perfectly.
Madrid Shifts Focus Amid Liverpool Advantage
According to Spanish outlet Defensa Central, Real Madrid has resigned itself to the likelihood that Schlotterbeck will move to Anfield next summer.
The report adds that the Spanish giants are now considering a move for Konate instead, viewing the Frenchman’s contract situation as an opportunity to secure him on a free transfer in the near future.
While Madrid continues to assess its defensive options, Liverpool’s proactive approach has reportedly given them the edge. Discussions between the club and Schlotterbeck’s representatives have already taken place, according to German outlet Bild.
Dortmund Faces Dilemma Over Contract Talks
Schlotterbeck remains under contract with Borussia Dortmund until 2027, but indications suggest he has little desire to extend his stay beyond that.
Dortmund, eager to secure his long-term future, has tabled a new deal that would keep him at the club until 2030 and significantly increase his salary to around €8 million per year — nearly three times his current wages.
Despite the offer, negotiations have stalled. Dortmund’s sporting director, Lars Ricken, has acknowledged the player’s right to consider his options but warned that the club’s patience is not limitless.
Speaking to Bild, Ricken said, “It is his absolute right to plan his future carefully. We respect that. And I believe the focus should not be on salary, but on prospects, trust, and conviction.”
A Transfer Saga Nearing Its Turning Point
Ricken went on to clarify that Dortmund would not be pressured into a rushed decision but hinted that a resolution must come soon. “We will not rush into anything,” he said. “But of course, we don’t want to drag it out indefinitely. Everyone is aware of that.”
As things stand, all signs point toward Liverpool securing Schlotterbeck as part of their defensive rebuild for the future. If the transfer materializes, it could mark a significant coup for the Premier League side — and a rare defeat for Real Madrid in the market for one of Europe’s most promising defenders.
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