Real Madrid ‘to be in strong position’ to sign Nico Schlotterbeck | OneFootball

Real Madrid plan to recruit a new centre-back this summer as they consider upgrades, with Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba out of contract and potentially leaving.

Several targets have emerged in recent months. Marc Guehi and Dayot Upamecano have slipped down the list, Ibrahima Konate remains in the frame, and focus has shifted to Borussia Dortmund and Germany defender Nico Schlotterbeck. According to Diario AS, Madrid’s rapport with Dortmund could put them in a strong position if they move for him.

It is looking increasingly likely that Schlotterbeck will leave in the summer. He has declined a new deal and, with his contract running to 2027, Dortmund may look to cash in. Madrid see him as a market opportunity.

Florentino Perez is admired by former Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joaquim Watzke, who remains highly regarded at the club despite departing in 2025. Lars Ricken is now at the helm and holds a similar view, with mutual respect felt in the Bernabeu offices.

Whether Madrid formalise interest remains to be seen. Schlotterbeck would be an excellent addition alongside Eder Militao, Dean Huijsen and Raul Asencio, and he may not be the only centre-back arriving, especially if Rudiger and Alaba both move on.

Source: Football Espana