Liverpool eye Nico Schlotterbeck amid uncertainty over Konate and Guehi pursuit
Liverpool are preparing to explore the possibility of signing Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck, with the German international emerging as a serious candidate in their search for defensive reinforcements, according to Sports Illustrated.
The club’s recruitment team has long prioritised the addition of a centre-back, particularly after missing out on Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi during the last transfer window. That setback, coupled with the growing uncertainty around Ibrahima Konate’s contract situation, has prompted Liverpool to reassess their long-term defensive options.
Schlotterbeck monitored as potential solution
Schlotterbeck, 25, has been on Liverpool’s radar for several months and is understood to be admired for his blend of composure, aerial dominance and tactical awareness. His contract with Dortmund runs until 2027, but discussions over an extension have stalled, opening a potential opportunity for interested clubs to make a move next summer.
According to reports in Germany, Dortmund remain hopeful of convincing Schlotterbeck to stay, though their initial proposal was met with hesitation by the player’s representatives. Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are also monitoring the situation, creating the prospect of a high-profile battle across Europe for his signature.
For Liverpool, the situation represents a potential window to act decisively. Sources close to the club suggest that initial contact could be made in the coming months as Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes look to solidify the defensive core before the next campaign.
Konate’s future adds to defensive concerns
Konate, who joined Liverpool from RB Leipzig in 2021, is approaching the final six months of his contract and has yet to agree an extension. While the club are open to keeping him, there is a growing acceptance that he may seek a new challenge — particularly with Real Madrid expressing long-standing interest in the France international.
Madrid’s recruitment focus for 2025 reportedly includes Konate, Guehi and Schlotterbeck, as Carlo Ancelotti prepares for a possible reshaping of his defensive unit. That overlap could directly impact Liverpool’s plans, given their interest in the same targets.
If Konate were to depart, Liverpool would be left short of natural centre-backs capable of performing at the elite level required for a title challenge and Champions League progression. The club are therefore prioritising clarity on his future before the January window, with contingency plans already in place.
Guehi remains on radar despite summer setback
Despite Crystal Palace’s firm stance during the last window, Guehi remains of interest to Liverpool. His profile — Premier League-proven, tactically versatile, and still only 24 — fits the club’s recruitment philosophy. However, his market valuation, expected to exceed £60 million, could make any deal difficult unless player sales are sanctioned.
Liverpool’s scouting department continues to assess multiple options, including emerging defenders in France and Portugal, though Schlotterbeck’s name is viewed as the most established solution available at a reasonable cost.
Schlotterbeck weighing his options
For now, Schlotterbeck remains focused on his performances with Dortmund, but he is said to be open to listening to offers should talks with his current club fail to progress. Sporting director Lars Ricken has publicly acknowledged the player’s right to consider his future but stressed that Dortmund would not allow the process to drag on indefinitely.
“It is his right to plan his future carefully,” Ricken told Sport Bild. “We respect that. What matters most is trust and conviction, not just the financial side. We won’t rush things, but we also won’t let it continue endlessly.”
Liverpool’s interest, while at an early stage, underscores their intention to remain proactive in a transfer market increasingly defined by expiring contracts and strategic timing. As the futures of Konate, Guehi and Schlotterbeck intertwine, Anfield’s next defensive signing could depend as much on circumstance as on choice.
