Liverpool Defensive Rebuild Puts Nico Schlotterbeck and Murillo Under the Spotlight

Liverpool are advancing plans for a significant defensive reshaping, with Caught Offside reporting that Borussia Dortmund captain Nico Schlotterbeck and Nottingham Forest defender Murillo are among the leading names under consideration.

The central issue is clear. Liverpool are mapping out the next phase of their back line amid growing uncertainty around Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez. Recruitment staff want a profile capable of far more than old-fashioned defending. The brief is specific, defenders who can dominate physically, build attacks from deep, defend open spaces and function in a possession-based structure.

Schlotterbeck and Murillo fit Liverpool shortlist

The report states that “Schlotterbeck remains one of Liverpool’s leading centre-back targets despite signing a new Borussia Dortmund contract earlier this year.” Murillo is also firmly admired, with Alessandro Bastoni and Jules Kounde mentioned among the wider options being tracked.

At this stage, Liverpool have “not submitted a formal offer for Schlotterbeck or Murillo”. That is an important distinction. The process is described as one built around “scouting, performance analysis and assessing the conditions that would be required for future negotiations”, which suggests groundwork rather than active bidding.

Nico Schlotterbeck offers leadership and balance

Schlotterbeck’s situation is complicated. His new Dortmund deal runs until 2031 and reportedly includes a release mechanism worth around €50m-€60m for selected clubs from summer 2027. Outside of that framework, Dortmund have been linked with asking prices above €70m.

From Liverpool’s perspective, the attraction is easy to understand. He is left-sided, progressive in possession and physically assertive. The original report adds that his “left-footed distribution, ability to step into midfield, aggression in duels and aerial presence make him particularly suited to Liverpool’s requirements.” There is also the leadership element, with the 26-year-old now captaining Dortmund.

Crucially, “Schlotterbeck arguably looks like the more natural stylistic successor to Van Dijk.” For a club trying to plan beyond one of the defining centre-backs of the modern era, that detail will matter.

Murillo brings Premier League proof and pace

Murillo appeals for different reasons. The 24-year-old has already shown he can cope with the intensity of English football, and the report notes he “combines explosive recovery pace with aggressive one-on-one defending and confidence carrying or passing the ball out from the back.”

That blend gives Liverpool a degree of certainty. “Liverpool would not have to wonder whether he can handle the pace, physicality or intensity of English football.” For a team defending high spaces, his speed could be a major asset.

The challenge is the deal itself. Nottingham Forest “have no intention of allowing him to leave in January” and, with a contract until 2030, are protected from pressure. As the report explains, Liverpool “may have to pay a considerable premium.”

Our View

This makes sense on paper, but there is still a feeling of caution until the interest becomes something firmer. Liverpool being linked with top-class centre-backs is no surprise because the long-term questions have been obvious for a while. What matters now is whether the club are prepared to move decisively when the right opening appears.

Schlotterbeck sounds like the elegant solution. A left-footed centre-back with leadership presence, quality on the ball and experience at a high level ticks nearly every box. The concern is obvious, though. If the price climbs beyond €70m, Liverpool would need to be absolutely certain he is the one.

Murillo feels more familiar because he has already done it in the Premier League. There is less adaptation risk, and that carries real value. The problem is that Forest are strong financially and contractually, so the fee could quickly become inflated beyond reason.

The wider point is that Liverpool cannot afford to drift on this position. Waiting too long in the hope that prices soften can leave a squad stuck between eras. If this rebuild is serious, it needs conviction. Both names are exciting, but there is still a gap between admiration and execution, and that is where the uncertainty sits.

Source: Caught Offside