Liverpool is poised to revamp their centre-back options in the forthcoming transfer windows.
After missing out on Marc Guehi last summer, the Premier League champions currently find themselves lacking in experienced and fit defenders.
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Manager Arne Slot has only Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, and Joe Gomez as his available options, with Giovanni Leoni sidelined for the season due to an injury sustained on his debut.
There are also contract uncertainties surrounding Konate, whose deal runs until 2026.
Nico Schlotterbeck on Liverpool’s radar
Considering that both Van Dijk and Gomez are set to depart the club in 2027, it’s understandable why sporting director Richard Hughes may be looking to secure additional central defenders.
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Notably, Nico Schlotterbeck, a standout defender from Borussia Dortmund, has emerged as a key target.
The 26-year-old German international has been at the Westfalenstadion since 2022, establishing himself as one of the top left-sided centre-backs in the world.
With his contract expiring in 2027, Dortmund faces a pressing decision regarding his future.
BILD reports Schlotterbeck won’t renew his contract
They must weigh the option of selling their star defender soon to avoid losing him for free in about 18 months.
A recent report from BILD suggests that Schlotterbeck’s future is set and he will not be renewing his contract.
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“For months, the club has been trying to extend the contract of their defensive leader beyond 2027 and has already submitted an official offer,” the report indicates. “However, no progress has been made. Therefore, I’m making a bold claim: Schlotterbeck will not extend his contract with BVB!”
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Dortmund must contemplate a sale
This situation could pave the way for Liverpool to submit an offer.
A bid in January might be advantageous for both sides, especially as Dortmund would prefer not to see Schlotterbeck’s market value diminish further as he approaches the final year of his contract.
As Liverpool looks to transition away from Van Dijk in the near future, Schlotterbeck is well-positioned to assume that role in the long term.
Other potential targets being considered include Inter’s Alessandro Bastoni and Ronald Araujo from Barcelona.