Barcelona decide to drop interest in in-demand Bundesliga defender after detailed analysis | OneFootball

Barcelona have made a clear decision regarding their defensive plans for next summer. 

According to a report from SPORT, the Catalan club has ruled out making any move for Nico Schlotterbeck, despite previously considering him as a potential option to strengthen the centre of defence.

Barcelona are well aware that signing a left-footed centre-back will be a priority in the upcoming transfer window. 

The club’s sporting department has been analysing several profiles over recent months, and Schlotterbeck was one of the names that appeared on their internal shortlist. 

His strong performances for Borussia Dortmund this season, combined with his international experience, initially made him an attractive candidate.

Another factor working in Schlotterbeck’s favour was his existing relationship with Hansi Flick. 

The Barcelona coach knows the defender well and was the one who handed him his debut with the German national team. 

That familiarity led many to believe the Blaugrana could seriously pursue the signing.

Barcelona rule out the move

Barcelona have ended their pursuit of Nico Schlotterbeck. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)

However, after a detailed internal analysis, Barcelona have decided to move in a different direction. 

While the club acknowledge that Schlotterbeck possesses good technical ability, composure on the ball, and a wide range of defensive resources, they feel his profile does not fully match what Flick is looking for. 

Sources close to the club suggest that concerns over his pace were decisive, with Barcelona believing he would struggle to consistently meet the demands of their high defensive line and aggressive pressing system.

The margins for error in Flick’s system are small, and the club is determined not to compromise on key physical and tactical requirements. 

As a result, the decision on Schlotterbeck is final, and Barcelona will not enter the race for his signature.

Instead, Barcelona have narrowed their focus to two highly rated alternatives. At the top of the list is Alessandro Bastoni of Inter Milan, who is seen as the ideal fit for the role. 

The second option is Micky van de Ven from Tottenham Hotspur, with reports indicating the Dutch defender is keen on leaving the Premier League this summer.