Liverpool’s Potential Move for Nico Schlotterbeck: Could 2026 Bring a Bargain?
With Liverpool’s recent Premier League triumph under manager Arne Slot in the 2024/25 season, the club’s ambitions for strengthening their squad continue to be high. A key position that may see reinforcement is centre-back, with Nico Schlotterbeck, the Borussia Dortmund defender, emerging as a potential target. As discussions around his future grow louder, there are signs that Liverpool could secure him for a significantly reduced fee.
Schlotterbeck’s Interest in Liverpool
In recent weeks, transfer insider claims have suggested that Schlotterbeck might be open to a move to Anfield. CF Bayern Insider, a source with good connections, reported that the 25-year-old centre-back could be interested in joining the Reds. This is particularly notable as Real Madrid, another club reportedly tracking Schlotterbeck, may be facing competition from Liverpool. Speculation suggests that the defender could prefer a move to Liverpool under Slot’s management, where he could potentially thrive in a system that suits his qualities.
Discounted Deal in 2026
Sky journalist Sacha Tavolieri had previously placed Schlotterbeck’s price tag at €60m (£52.9m), based on Borussia Dortmund’s valuation. However, with less than two years remaining on the player’s contract, Liverpool might be able to secure a deal for less than that figure. Transfer expert Pete O’Rourke weighed in on this possibility, sharing on the Inside Track podcast that Liverpool could acquire Schlotterbeck for a “cut-price fee” if they move next summer.
He elaborated: “Liverpool will be definitely in that race to try and sign him and bring him to England if they can. A top player like that, you might be able to get him for a cut-price fee next summer, especially if he’s going into the final year of his contract with Dortmund without any agreement on an extension.”
This could provide Liverpool with an ideal opportunity to strengthen their defence without breaking the bank.
Schlotterbeck’s Impressive Stats
Schlotterbeck’s performance metrics over the past year make him an enticing prospect for any top club. His statistics in Europe’s top five leagues place him among the best in his position. According to FBref, Schlotterbeck ranks in the 99th percentile for both assists (0.17 per 90 minutes) and progressive passes (7.43 per 90 minutes), making him a highly efficient ball-playing centre-back. His shot-creating actions (1.83 per 90 minutes) and passes made (84.06 per 90 minutes) also demonstrate his ability to contribute to both defensive solidity and attacking transitions.
Liverpool’s interest in Schlotterbeck could provide them with a player who not only offers defensive stability but also adds an extra dimension to their build-up play, much like Virgil van Dijk has over the years.
Future Centre-Back Partner for Van Dijk’s Successor
Even if Liverpool manage to extend Ibrahima Konaté’s contract, Schlotterbeck’s potential arrival would add depth and quality to their centre-back options. Van Dijk, who is expected to be 36 by the time his contract expires in 2027, will eventually need a successor. Schlotterbeck, with his age, experience, and skill set, would be an ideal candidate to fill that role. If he remains unwilling to commit to a new deal at Dortmund, Liverpool could do well to move quickly and make a move for the Germany international in 2026.
With Schlotterbeck’s qualities and the chance to sign him for a lower fee, Liverpool would be wise to pursue this opportunity, whether or not they extend Konaté’s contract. Schlotterbeck’s potential at Anfield could be immense, making him an exciting prospect for both Liverpool and their fans.
