Liverpool are reportedly considering a move for Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck as a long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk, according to German outlet Bild.
At 25 years old, Schlotterbeck has become a key player for Dortmund since his €20 million move from Freiburg in 2022. However, ongoing contract negotiations with Dortmund have hit a standstill, drawing attention from some of Europe’s biggest clubs. Alongside Liverpool, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Manchester City are all said to be monitoring the situation closely.
Schlotterbeck’s current contract runs until June 2027, but Dortmund are pushing for an extension through 2030. So far, the defender has yet to respond to the offer, leading to increased speculation about his future.
Liverpool’s interest in Schlotterbeck comes as the club faces uncertainty in its defensive ranks. Ibrahima Konaté’s contract expires in the summer of 2026 and he could leave as a free agent, while new signing Giovanni Leone is sidelined with a serious cruciate ligament injury.
Although Borussia Dortmund are not currently entertaining offers for Schlotterbeck, Liverpool are reportedly preparing for a potential approach during the upcoming winter transfer window. New manager Arne Slot views the German international as a potential cornerstone for the club’s future defensive line, especially with Van Dijk entering the later stages of his career.
Schlotterbeck has made four appearances for Dortmund so far this season. Despite not registering any goals, his performances continue to reflect the solid defensive qualities that have made him one of Germany’s most promising centre-backs.
Dortmund figure Lars Ricken commented on the situation, stating that it’s entirely within Schlotterbeck’s rights to carefully plan his future before making a decision.
As the January transfer window approaches, the coming months could be decisive in determining whether Schlotterbeck becomes the next major defensive signing for the Reds.
