Antonio Rudiger endorses Real Madrid move for Nico Schlotterbeck: ‘Good players are always welcome’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s search for defensive reinforcements continues to generate headlines, and one name that refuses to go away is Borussia Dortmund centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck.

The German international has emerged as a serious candidate for a move to the Santiago Bernabeu as Real Madrid continue evaluating options to strengthen their backline ahead of the new season. 

Recent reports have suggested that Schlotterbeck is open to joining Real Madrid if the opportunity arises, with his reported €50 million release clause making him an attractive option.

Antonio Rudiger backs Schlotterbeck’s move

Speaking while on international duty, Antonio Rudiger openly expressed his admiration for his fellow German international amid growing speculation surrounding a potential transfer.

Rudiger has welcomed the idea of signing Nico Schlotterbeck. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

Asked about Real Madrid’s links with Schlotterbeck and midfielder Felix Nmecha, Rudiger avoided going into too much detail but made it clear that he would welcome quality additions to the squad.

“Good players are always welcome. But I don’t want to say much more about it. I’d be happy,” he began, as quoted by Florian Plettenberg.

Rudiger went even further when discussing the Borussia Dortmund defender’s strengths, offering a detailed assessment of why Schlotterbeck is regarded as one of Germany’s standout centre-backs.

“Nico has always been a threat, especially from set pieces. He’s aggressive, he’s always there in duels and his build-up play is outstanding. His left foot is gold,” he added.

On Jose Mourinho’s appointment

Rudiger is excited to work with Mourinho. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, the German defender also spoke about the arrival of Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid and the expected appointment of Sami Khedira as part of the coaching staff.

Reflecting on the opportunity to finally work with Mourinho, the defender said,

“I can’t say much about Khedira yet. But I’m really looking forward to Mourinho. Finally, I get the chance to work under him.

“We’ve had a lot of conversations in the past, but it never worked out. Now, finally, it has,” he concluded.