Liverpool FC have reportedly set their sights on Borussia Dortmund’s highly-rated centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck as they look to bolster their defensive options in the upcoming summer transfer window. The 25-year-old German international has emerged as a key target for the Reds, who are keen to maintain their competitive edge in the Premier League and beyond.
Schlotterbeck, who joined Dortmund from SC Freiburg in the summer of 2022, has established himself as one of the Bundesliga’s standout defenders. Known for his composure on the ball, physical presence, and ability to read the game, the 6ft 2in centre-back has been a linchpin in Dortmund’s backline. His performances have not only earned him plaudits in Germany but also a growing reputation across Europe, with Liverpool now said to be leading the chase for his signature.
According to sources close to the club, Liverpool manager Arne Slot views Schlotterbeck as an ideal fit for his tactical system, which emphasizes ball-playing defenders capable of initiating attacks from the back. With Virgil van Dijk’s contract entering its final months and Joel Matip having departed last summer, the Reds are actively planning for the future of their defense. Schlotterbeck’s left-footedness and versatility—he can also deputize at left-back—make him an appealing long-term investment.
Reports suggest that Liverpool have already made preliminary inquiries with Dortmund, though no official bid has been tabled yet. Dortmund, for their part, are unlikely to let their star defender go cheaply. Schlotterbeck’s current contract runs until 2027, and the German club is expected to demand a fee in the region of €50-60 million (£42-50m), given his importance to the team and his 14 caps for the German national side.
This isn’t the first time Liverpool have looked to the Bundesliga for defensive reinforcements. The club successfully signed Ibrahima Konaté from RB Leipzig in 2021, a move that has paid dividends with the Frenchman becoming a mainstay in the squad. Schlotterbeck could follow a similar path, bringing a blend of youth and experience to Anfield.
However, Liverpool may face competition. Schlotterbeck’s performances have also caught the eye of other European giants, with Bayern Munich and Manchester City rumored to be monitoring his situation. Dortmund, meanwhile, will be keen to hold onto their man, especially after losing key players like Erling Haaland and Jude Bellingham in recent years.