Barcelona well-positioned to sign Bundesliga defender; Flick could be the key | OneFootball

Barcelona are in the market for a new left-footed centre-back for next season, with Borussia Dortmund star Nico Schlotterbeck one of the names very well-liked by the club.

The Blaugrana are eager to fill the void left by Inigo Martinez’s departure last summer, with the German international being seen as a good fit for the project.

Barcelona well-positioned to sign Schlotterbeck

Now, according to BILD (h/t SPORT), Barcelona are now well-positioned to secure the signing of Schlotterbeck from Borussia Dortmund in the summer.

Schlotterbeck’s contract runs until 2027, and, so far, all attempts by Borussia Dortmund to renew it have failed. Meanwhile, his camp has explored options and knows that Barcelona’s interest is growing.

Moreover, Schlotterbeck has already ruled out a move to Liverpool, as the English club have cancelled negotiations. They wanted him this January, but Dortmund will not sell now, so they have withdrawn their interest.

Bayern Munich, who had also shown strong interest, have prioritised renewing Dayot Upamecano and will not target the German international either.

Schlotterbeck is a key target for Barcelona. (Photo by Pau Barrena/Getty Images)

Given these developments, Barcelona are beginning to believe that they have serious chances to complete his signing, and Hansi Flick could be the decisive factor.

The current Barcelona coach gave him his debut with the German national team, and there is a good understanding between them.

For the coaching staff, Schlotterbeck would be a good fit in the team because of his defensive authority, his left-footed ball progression, and his personality on the pitch. However, the final transfer fee could be the deciding factor.

If he does not renew, Dortmund could either keep Schlotterbeck for the final year of his contract or place him on the market to secure a fee. His current valuation is €40 million, but Barcelona do not wish to reach that figure.

So, it remains to be seen how things evolve from hereon, but Barcelona are starting to feel good about their chances of landing the German ace.