Three reasons why Bayern must move for Schlotterbeck now | OneFootball

Nico Schlotterbeck is currently one of the most sought-after central defenders in the Bundesliga. As the 25-year-old continues to delay his contract extension with Borussia Dortmund, a rare window of opportunity opens for FC Bayern. Three reasons why the Munich team should act now.

1. Bayern's Defense Needs Reinforcement

The German record champion faces a tricky squad decision this summer. Dayot Upamecano's contract runs until 2026, but talks about an extension are progressing slowly. Doubts are also growing about Minjae Kim—both in terms of performance and fitness. The South Korean has not reached his top form for months and is repeatedly linked with a transfer.

If either of the two leaves, a dangerous gap threatens in the defense. Experts see a need for action. "Doesn't Bayern need three top central defenders? I mean top central defenders," Felix Kroos provocatively asked on the SPORT1 show Doppelpass, emphasizing that FCB is currently not broadly positioned enough in defense.

A player like Schlotterbeck would immediately enhance the quality in defense—and provide more stability in a part of the team that has recently been one of the biggest uncertainties.

2. Schlotterbeck Fits Perfectly into Bayern's Profile

Photo: IMAGO/Maximilian Koch | Photo: IMAGO/Maximilian Koch,

Strong in play, strong in duels, left-footed—and with leadership qualities: Schlotterbeck brings exactly the attributes Bayern desires in a modern central defender.

According to Lothar Matthäus, the BVB professional is therefore "a player for FC Bayern—and the club must engage with him." The 25-year-old impresses with his bold build-up play, precise diagonal balls, and the ability to initiate plays—skills that are particularly in demand under Vincent Kompany.

With Jonathan Tah currently on the field as a defensive leader, who will already be 30 years old in 2026, Schlotterbeck would be the ideal addition—and logically the long-term successor. His performance in the recent classic against Bayern was closely observed by the club: calm on the ball, strong in duels, present.

3. Now or Never—the Window is Open

BVB would like to bind Schlotterbeck long-term, but the player is taking his time. "It's an important step in my career," he said to Sky about his situation. A decision has not yet been made—and this is exactly what opens the door for Bayern.

Once Schlotterbeck extends with BVB, a transfer would likely be off the table permanently. But now the opportunity is there: The central defender would still be affordable, especially since Bayern could create financial leeway through a possible sale of Kim. Schlotterbeck would also be a more cost-effective solution in terms of salary compared to an Upamecano extension.

Kroos explicitly praises the national player's development: "You can see a clear progression in him. In his first four international matches, I think he caused three penalties—now he plays much more maturely and stably." His diagonal balls and bold build-up play fit perfectly with the modern, dominant football Kompany wants to see.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.