Liverpool’s growing interest in Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck could set off a domino effect that reshapes the defensive lines of several European giants. With the Reds looking to bolster their backline following a series of setbacks, their potential move for the German centre-back could open the door for Marc Guehi’s long-awaited switch to Real Madrid and Bayern Munich’s hopes of securing Dayot Upamecano’s future.
Liverpool Eye Schlotterbeck Amid Defensive Crisis
After failing to land Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi on deadline day, Liverpool’s defensive woes have only deepened. Youngster Giovanni Leoni, brought in during the summer, has been sidelined for the season with an ACL injury, while Ibrahima Konaté’s shaky performances have added urgency to the Reds’ search for reinforcements.
Enter Nico Schlotterbeck. The Borussia Dortmund defender is now firmly on Liverpool’s radar, and reports suggest a January bid could be in the works. With Schlotterbeck reportedly stalling on a contract extension at Dortmund, Jürgen Klopp’s former club may be forced to make a decision sooner than expected.
How a Schlotterbeck Move Helps Madrid and Bayern
While Liverpool’s main priority is strengthening their backline, their pursuit of Schlotterbeck may inadvertently solve problems for two of Europe’s other heavyweights: Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.
Madrid have been monitoring both Konaté and Guehi, with the latter seen as a strong candidate to replace ageing legs at the Bernabéu. However, Konaté’s current form and his reluctance to extend his contract at Anfield have made the move less appealing for Los Blancos. If Liverpool secure Schlotterbeck, Konaté could be allowed to leave—potentially reigniting Madrid’s interest—or, more likely, the Reds will cool on Guehi, allowing Madrid a clear path to the Palace defender.
Meanwhile, Bayern are also tracking Guehi as a potential replacement if Dayot Upamecano refuses to sign a new deal. With Guehi on the move, possibly to Madrid, Bayern would be under less pressure—especially if Upamecano opts to stay put in light of reduced competition.
A “One-Each” Scenario for Europe’s Top Clubs?
According to transfer expert Christian Falk, Liverpool, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid have all placed Schlotterbeck, Guehi, and Upamecano on their defensive wish lists. This unusual overlap creates a rare opportunity for a mutually beneficial outcome where each club gets one of the three targets.
It’s a puzzle with moving parts, but if Liverpool lead the way by landing Schlotterbeck, the rest of the pieces may fall into place: Guehi to Real Madrid and Upamecano staying loyal to Bayern Munich.
Schlotterbeck’s Future Still Up in the Air
Dortmund remain eager to secure Schlotterbeck’s long-term services and have offered him a contract extension until 2030. His current deal runs until 2027, but the 25-year-old is reportedly hesitant. Speaking ahead of Dortmund’s Champions League clash with Athletic Bilbao, Schlotterbeck admitted he won’t rush a decision, saying, “It won’t be that soon that I will extend my contract!”
His stance appears more about ambition than finances. “He wants to make sure he can play for titles in the future,” reported German outlet BILD. Dortmund managing director Lars Ricken echoed the club’s patient approach, stating: “We respect that… it’s not about salary, but about perspective, trust and conviction.”
As Liverpool prepare to address their defensive frailties, their interest in Nico Schlotterbeck could set off a wider reshuffling of centre-backs across Europe. With Real Madrid and Bayern Munich watching closely, a transfer window once defined by isolated deals may soon turn into a strategic alignment of three of the continent’s biggest clubs.
