Liverpool target Bundesliga star in €50m transfer move | OneFootball

Liverpool Eye Bundesliga Star to Bolster Defence

Liverpool’s summer transfer plans are beginning to take shape, and a high-profile defensive signing could be on the cards. According to German outlet BILD, Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck has emerged as a leading target for the Reds as they look to reinforce their backline.

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Defensive Reinforcements on the Horizon

With Virgil van Dijk now 33, Liverpool are preparing for the future, and Schlotterbeck is seen as an ideal candidate to eventually take over the defensive mantle. The 25-year-old German international has been a standout performer for Dortmund since his move from SC Freiburg in 2022, and his stock continues to rise.

Photo IMAGO

It’s no secret that Liverpool are in the market for defensive additions. Fabrizio Romano has already reported that three defenders are on their shortlist, while Arne Slot himself confirmed in January that the club is actively planning for summer reinforcements:

A €50 Million Move on the Table?

Liverpool’s interest in Schlotterbeck appears to be serious. BILD reports that the Reds are prepared to offer over €50 million (around £42 million) to secure his services, a significant investment that underlines their faith in his ability.

From a statistical perspective, Schlotterbeck’s profile fits the demands of a modern Liverpool centre-back. He possesses an impressive blend of defensive solidity and ball-playing ability, making him a natural fit for Slot’s tactical approach. His aerial prowess and reading of the game make him a compelling option as Liverpool look to maintain their high defensive standards.

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Dortmund’s Determination to Retain Their Star

While Liverpool’s interest is concrete, Dortmund are not keen to part ways with Schlotterbeck easily. Despite his contract running until 2027, the German club has already begun negotiations for an extension. A proposed deal would see him become one of Dortmund’s highest earners.

Beyond financial incentives, Dortmund are reportedly considering naming Schlotterbeck as their next club captain, potentially replacing Emre Can. This move would solidify his position as a key figure at the club during what has been a challenging period for the Bundesliga side.

However, Dortmund’s ability to keep him could depend heavily on their league performance. Currently sitting 10th in the Bundesliga and seven points adrift of Champions League qualification, their lack of European football could make it harder to retain top talents.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This is exactly the kind of ambition Liverpool fans want to see from the club. The defensive unit has been one of the Reds’ strongest areas for years, but evolution is essential. Van Dijk remains a world-class operator, but a long-term successor is a necessity, and Schlotterbeck could be the perfect candidate.

At 25, he offers experience but also room for growth. His ability to carry the ball out from the back and initiate attacks would add a new dimension to Liverpool’s build-up play under Slot. With the Dutchman expected to implement a slightly different defensive system, Schlotterbeck’s versatility would be a huge asset.

There’s also the factor of competition. Ibrahima Konaté and Joe Gomez have both had their moments, but injuries and inconsistency have at times been an issue. Bringing in another top-level defender ensures Liverpool remain competitive at the highest level, particularly with the Premier League becoming increasingly challenging.

The key question is whether Dortmund can convince him to stay. If they fail to secure Champions League football, the pull of Anfield and the Premier League could be too strong to resist. A move like this would signal that Liverpool are serious about building another title-winning defence.