Nico Schlotterbeck (foto: Getty Images)
Liverpool is eyeing Nico Schlotterbeck as a potential replacement for Virgil van Dijk, but Borussia Dortmund is preparing a lucrative contract extension to keep him.
With contract uncertainties surrounding Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool is actively exploring defensive reinforcements for the future. One of the club’s top targets appears to be Nico Schlotterbeck, the highly-rated Borussia Dortmund center-back.
Liverpool’s defensive succession plan
Van Dijk, now 33, remains a key figure at Anfield, but Liverpool understands the need to plan for the future. Whether or not the Dutch captain extends his contract, the club is keen on strengthening its backline. Schlotterbeck fits the profile, and he could either partner Van Dijk or replace him in the coming seasons, joining a defensive core that includes Ibrahima Konaté, Joe Gomez, and Jarell Quansah.
New manager Arne Slot is eager to expand Liverpool’s defensive depth, and Schlotterbeck is high on his wishlist. However, the Reds face stiff competition from Dortmund, who are determined to keep their star defender.
Dortmund's counter-offer: Captaincy and a massive pay rise
The German club is prepared to fight for Schlotterbeck’s future, offering a substantial salary increase to keep him at Signal Iduna Park.
- Current salary: €5 million per year
- New proposed salary: Between €10 million and €14 million per year
- Additional incentive: Club captaincy as Dortmund looks to make him their defensive leader
Despite Dortmund’s commitment, Liverpool’s appeal is strong, especially given Schlotterbeck’s desire to win trophies, something he has yet to achieve at club level.
Dortmund's price tag: Over €50 million
If Schlotterbeck decides to leave for Anfield, Liverpool will have to pay big. The German center-back is under contract until 2027, allowing Dortmund to demand a transfer fee of over €50 million.