Liverpool track Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck in £52m transfer
Liverpool are considering a move for Borussia Dortmund centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck after a £52m release clause was revealed in his new long-term contract.
The Premier League side have held a long-standing interest in the German international.
Despite recently signing an extension at Signal Iduna Park until 2031, the 26-year-old remains a viable target for Arne Slot’s squad.
German publication Kicker reports that the newly inserted release clause offers a straightforward path to securing his services without entering complex negotiations.
Defensive crisis deepens at Anfield
The Merseyside club have endured a challenging campaign, severely hindered by an inconsistent and injury-ravaged backline.
Summer signing Giovanni Leoni showed immense promise on his League Cup debut against Southampton, only to suffer a season-ending anterior cruciate ligament injury.
Uncertainty also surrounds Ibrahima Konate, who is yet to agree fresh terms, while veteran Joe Gomez could depart at the end of the current season.
Captain Virgil van Dijk remains a talismanic figure, but the commanding Dutch international will turn 35 before the start of the next campaign.
Missed targets and statistical dominance
The Reds previously missed out on Marc Guehi, whose proposed deadline-day switch collapsed before he subsequently joined Manchester City.
While an agreement is already in place for 20-year-old Jeremy Jacquet to arrive from Rennes ahead of the 2026-27 season, immediate defensive reinforcements are considered essential.
Standing at 6ft 3in, the left-footed Dortmund star offers an imposing physical presence and is widely renowned for his composure in possession.
Statistical data highlights his dominance, boasting a 62.9% success rate in aerial duels, 142 ball recoveries, and an 88.3% passing accuracy in the Bundesliga this year.
Hamann backs leadership qualities
Former Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann believes his compatriot possesses the necessary attributes to succeed Van Dijk in the heart of the defence.
“He’s a natural leader,” Hamann said.
“You don’t know how long Virgil van Dijk is going to be there. The perfect situation would be to…”