Liverpool Transfer News: Reds Eye Nico Schlotterbeck as Bayern Pull Out

Liverpool have received a major boost in their pursuit of Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck, with Bayern Munich cooling their interest due to cost concerns.[1][2][3][4][5][6]

The 26-year-old Germany international, valued at around €50 million (£41.7m), is on Liverpool's shortlist alongside Inter Milan's Alessandro Bastoni as potential reinforcements for the defensive line.[1][7] Manager Arne Slot views Schlotterbeck as a long-term successor to the ageing Virgil van Dijk, especially amid uncertainty over Ibrahima Konaté's future and Marc Guehi's move to Manchester City.[2][5]

Schlotterbeck has delayed signing a new Dortmund contract, which runs until 2027, despite offers up to €14 million per season including bonuses—potentially making him the club's highest earner.[1][5] He seeks a move to a team challenging for Premier League titles and the Champions League, ambitions he doubts Dortmund can fulfill consistently.[1][2][3]

Journalist Christian Falk reports in CF Bayern Insider that Bayern deem Schlotterbeck "too expensive" amid Dayot Upamecano's contract renewal, despite family ties to the club.[2][3][4][5][6] This opens the door for Liverpool, who have held positive talks with his representatives and are reportedly preparing a £41.7 million bid and contract offer worth €7 million annually.[1]

Praised for his ball-playing ability—like a "quarter-back" in build-up play, threading line-breaking passes and switches—Schlotterbeck fits Liverpool's style, particularly post-Trent Alexander-Arnold.[2] The Reds, current Premier League champions, have conceded 28 goals in 21 games this season, underscoring the need for defensive strengthening after summer signings like Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak, and Hugo Ekitike.[3]

With Dortmund facing a sell-or-lose-free dilemma in 2027, a January or summer 2026 transfer grows likely, positioning Liverpool as frontrunners ahead of Newcastle and others.[1][5]