BVB are preparing for the possible departure of Nico Schlotterbeck – a defender from FC Bayern of all clubs could be his successor.
The starting point for these considerations is Nico Schlotterbeck’s contract situation. The German international recently extended his contract with BVB until 2031, but with an exit clause that could allow certain top clubs to transfer him this summer.
The fixed transfer fee is said to be around 50 to 60 million euros. However, according to current reports, this clause only applies to selected clubs, not including FC Bayern, which rules out a direct transfer to the German record champions.
Nevertheless, a transfer between the two top German clubs could take place in the summer, and this is where a surprising name comes into play: according to recent reports, Bayern defender Hiroki Ito is on BVB’s list. The Japanese player could be considered as a direct reinforcement for the central defence in the event of Schlotterbeck’s departure.
Strong left foot an important criterion
Ito is considered a modern defensive player with a strong opening, good technique and high tactical flexibility – qualities that would fit perfectly into Dortmund’s profile. In addition, his situation at FC Bayern is not completely uncontroversial, which makes a transfer seem possible in principle.
Since moving to FC Bayern, Ito has often been injured and has not yet been able to play a leading role at the record champions. In addition to BVB, clubs from the Premier League are also said to be interested in Ito.
A possible transfer of Ito to Dortmund was also discussed in the BILD podcast Bayern Insider. His strong left foot in particular could make him interesting for the Black & Yellows, as BVB would presumably be looking specifically for a left-footed player in the event of Schlotterbeck’s departure.
This creates a clear scenario for Borussia Dortmund: If Schlotterbeck were to trigger his clause and leave the club, they would have to react – and Ito would obviously be one of the preferred solutions. At the same time, such a deal would take on additional explosiveness, as transfers between Bayern and Dortmund have historically always been particularly sensitive.
Whether it actually comes to that ultimately depends on Schlotterbeck himself. If he stays, BVB’s personnel planning should relax, but if he pulls the clause, there could be a new, surprising transfer story between the two top German clubs in the summer.