The future of Nico Schlotterbeck could well be settled in the coming months for the next few years, but Real Madrid do not believe that a new contract at Borussia Dortmund will be decisive. The German defender has been in negotiations with Dortmund in recent months, with his current deal expiring in 2027.
Schlotterbeck is one of few top options at centre-back that could be available this summer, due to his contract situation. It has also been reported that Schlotterbeck would be keen on a move to Real Madrid, who are looking to bring in a central defender this summer to complement their current crop.
Real Madrid do not believe contract renewal closes the door
The 26-year-old seemed to distance himself from a contract renewal on international duty, declaring that an agreement with Dortmund was not close, and contradicting the local reporting. Yet Diario AS say Real Madrid do not believe that Schlotterbeck renewing his contract will close the door on a move.
Their understanding is that any renewal will include a release clause that would not be prohibitive. The new offer on the table from Dortmund includes a significant wage rise to €14m per annum, and while BVB are keen to keep hold of him, their priority is not to lose Schlotterbeck for a reduced price, hence their willingness to include such a clause.
Real Madrid move may be unlikely anyway
Manchester United and Liverpool are also interested in Schlotterbeck this summer, but he may well be a back-up option for Los Blancos anyway. Real Madrid tend not to spend big fees on players in their mid-twenties of late, and as such, the possible free transfer of Ibrahima Konate seems more in line with their usual policy. In addition, they have been linked to teenage defenders Jon Martin and Honor Ahananor this week.
