FC Bayern’s squad planning for the coming season continues to gather pace. The Munich club could become particularly active in the center of defence and a German international remains in their focus
Nico Schlotterbeck is one of the most sought-after central defenders in the Bundesliga and, according to information from the English portal TEAMtalk, the German record champions currently hold the best cards in the transfer poker
Schlotterbeck is under contract with Borussia Dortmund until 2027, but the 26-year-old’s future is anything but clear. Although BVB sporting director Sebastian Kehl has recently stressed that an extension is a top priority, no breakthrough has yet been made. The left-back apparently sees no reason to rush, as the overall package in Dortmund is not yet convincing enough for him. If no agreement is reached, a sale in the summer is considered the most likely scenario in order to prevent him leaving on a free transfer
According to information from TEAMtalk, FC Bayern are in a strong starting position in this scenario. Munich have been monitoring Schlotterbeck for some time and see him as a strategically sensible addition to their central defence. The German international could play a key role in Munich, especially after the uncertain future of some of their own defenders and the general desire to further stabilize the defence
Although Real Madrid and FC Barcelona have also been mentioned as potential suitors, the report states that neither club is in a similarly exposed position to FCB. In Munich, the most convincing factor is that Schlotterbeck knows the Bundesliga inside out and could work immediately
Liverpool challenge FC Bayern
However, the record champions will not be able to bag the deal without any competition. As TEAMtalk reports, Liverpool FC have already contacted the player’s agency and held initial talks. The Reds have been keeping a close eye on Schlotterbeck for more than a year and see him as a potential pillar for the rebuilding of their defense
There is an acute need for action at Liverpool. Ibrahima Konaté has so far shown no signs of renewing his expiring contract. This has intensified the search for a new defensive boss, and Schlotterbeck is said to be high on the wish list. The competition from England is therefore serious – but whether Liverpool can actually keep up with Bayern in the poker game remains to be seen
In the event of a transfer, Schlotterbeck will cost around 60 million euros according to the report, while BVB are already sounding out the market in order to be able to act immediately in an emergency
In Munich, however, the situation has not changed: Max Eberl and Co. are still pushing for an extension with Dayot Upamecano. This remains a top priority, but should this fail to materialize, Schlotterbeck could become a serious option for FCB.