Barcelona front-runners to sign Nico Schlotterbeck in summer of 2026

Barcelona have emerged as the front-runners to sign Borussia Dortmund centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck in the summer of 2026, according to Diario Sport.

The German defender’s future remains a subject of discussion, with Dortmund in talks to extend his contract, which expires in June 2027.

Die Borussen have tabled a significant pay hike worth €8 million per year, but the 26-year-old is said to have declined the offer.

Schlotterbeck has decided against extending his stay at Signal Iduna Park in favour of pastures green, which might prompt the German giants to cash in on him next summer.

As one of the talented defenders in the world, the German international is unsurprisingly on the radar of several European giants.

Liverpool have withdrawn their pursuit of Schlotterbeck, who has also ruled out a move to the Premier League.

Bayern Munich have also been linked with the German defender, however, their priority is extending Dayot Upamecano’s stay.

The Bavarians are increasingly confident of renewing the Frenchman’s contract, which could potentially close the door for Schlotterbeck.

It opens the way for Barca to gain ground in Schlotterbeck’s race.

The Catalan club manager Hansi Flick has handpicked Schlotterbeck as the No.1 target to bolster their vulnerable defence.

The departure of Inigo Martinez, who was a cornerstone in the 2024/25 treble-winning season, to Al-Nassr in the summer has left a huge void in Barca’s backline this season.

Despite their attacking firepower, Barca’s defence has been calamitous, costing them big time in the Champions League.

Flick believes Schlotterbeck can bring in a similar impact as Martinez and lead the defence for the foreseeable future.

Trending

Euro 2024 Travel Guide: Hamburg

The Dortmund star ranks among the elite ball-playing defenders in Europe. His sturdy presence and quick recovery pace allow him to command the backline with aplomb. 

These qualities make him an ideal fit for Flick’s aggressive gegen-pressing and defensive high-line.

Schlotterbeck could be available for €40 million, a reasonable price for a player of his calibre.

Flick’s presence will be key to persuading the former Freiburg star due to an excellent relationship between them. 

The German gaffer handed Schlotterbeck his senior team debut during his stint as the national team’s head coach.

Flick has been utilising Gerard Martin as a make-shift left-side centre-back to a greater effect at Barca this season.