A development is emerging in the transfer poker surrounding Nico Schlotterbeck that could play into FC Bayern’s hands
Contrary to recent speculation, Real Madrid are apparently not planning a concrete move for the Borussia Dortmund central defender, according to Spanish newspaper Marca
This contradicts reports from BILD, according to which Schlotterbeck has recently come under increased scrutiny from the Whites. The background to this speculation was the imminent contract extension of Dayot Upamecano at FC Bayern, in whom Real Madrid are also said to have been interested. As this option is no longer available, Schlotterbeck is said to have been considered as a possible alternative
According to BILD, BVB would have asked for a transfer fee of around €50 million in the event of a sale, should the 26-year-old decide against an extension beyond 2027
However, according to Marca, Real Madrid are not currently pursuing this option. Although the Spanish record champions are continuing to sound out the market for defensive players, there is no concrete plan for Schlotterbeck. Real already invested heavily in their defence last summer, signing three new defenders in Dean Huijsen, Alvaro Carreras and Trent Alexander-Arnold. In addition, the contracts of Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba expire next summer, with Alaba in particular looking set to leave. The renewed long-term injury to Eder Militao is also playing a role in the considerations
In addition to Upamecano, Ibrahima Konaté from Liverpool FC and Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace are also said to have been on Real’s radar – the latter is also on FC Bayern’s list
Schlotterbeck remains a Bayern topic despite Upamecano’s whereabouts
Regardless of this, Nico Schlotterbeck remains on FC Bayern’s radar. His contract in Dortmund runs until the summer of 2027, BVB are pushing for an extension, but the international is playing for time so far. According to information from BILD, Munich are still looking at Schlotterbeck even if Upamecano stays long-term. The reason for this is the future of Minjae Kim, whose departure in the summer has not yet been conclusively clarified internally
However, a concrete Bayern move for Schlotterbeck is not an issue in the short term. Instead, a transfer-free scenario in the summer of 2027 is seen as a realistic option in Munich if Schlotterbeck does not extend his contract in Dortmund
BVB continue to be combative, with sporting director Sebastian Kehl recently emphasizing: „Of course we are trying to convince him – with all the power that this club has, I also believe with the appreciation that the youngster feels, with the goals that we want to achieve together.“ At the same time, Kehl made it clear that they want to give the process time: „Such issues need to mature a little.“