Decision looming: Dortmund still hopeful of Schlotterbeck extension | OneFootball

Over the weekend, Nico Schlotterbeck was initially lucky to avoid a possible red card in the Klassiker against FC Bayern Munich (2:3), and then drew even more attention by scoring the opening goal to put Borussia Dortmund 1-0 ahead, but ultimately left the field as a loser along with his teammates. At the same time, the still unresolved future of the central defender remains a topic of discussion, though it is expected to be settled soon.

It has long been rumored that Schlotterbeck’s decision about his future will be made in March, ideally before he joins the national team for friendly matches at the end of the month in Switzerland (March 27) and against Ghana (March 30).

It won’t be much longer before it becomes clear where the 26-year-old central defender’s path will lead. Real Madrid is currently considered BVB’s biggest competitor, although the Spanish giants have yet to make a concrete offer. Interest from other clubs, especially in the English Premier League, has been quiet for some time, and a move to FC Bayern Munich seems off the table following Dayot Upamecano’s contract extension with the record champions.

BVB planning one final talk with Schlotterbeck

Meanwhile, Dortmund is leaving no stone unturned in trying to convince Schlotterbeck to stay long-term. According to Sport BILD, a major round of talks will take place shortly before the national player’s decision, with most of Dortmund’s leadership team expected to participate alongside Schlotterbeck himself.

Photo: IMAGO

The BVB bosses want to outline Schlotterbeck’s future role for him once again, which, following Emre Can’s injury, could even include the captaincy as early as next season. Above all, Schlotterbeck is to be emotionally inspired and excited about a future in Dortmund, including the oft-mentioned prospect of achieving hero status like Jürgen Kohler or Mats Hummels.

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