Liverpool boost as target refusing to sign new deal | OneFootball

Liverpool Assess Defensive Market After Contract Twist at Dortmund

Contract Tensions Shape Transfer Landscape

Liverpool have been presented with what sources regard as a meaningful development in their long running search for a defensive addition. Sports Mole reported that Nico Schlotterbeck is “refusing to extend his contract at Dortmund, which expires in 2027”, a stance that has already reverberated across Europe. The German club had been prepared to offer a new deal until 2030, yet “as of now, he has not shown any inclination to commit to his future”.

For a Liverpool side that has conceded 17 goals in the Premier League this season, recruitment discussions have inevitably accelerated. Arne Slot’s champions attempted to land Marc Guehi in the last summer window, although Crystal Palace were unable to secure a replacement and the transfer collapsed. Guehi will be a free agent next summer, and competition from Bayern Munich and Real Madrid ensures Liverpool cannot rely on that path alone.

Schlotterbeck and Other Options Under Review

The Sports Mole piece underlines that Schlotterbeck is “unhappy with Niko Kovac’s pragmatic style of play”, prompting suggestions that a departure in 2025 could suit all parties. A source close to the deal told German media that the defender “wants an environment that suits his game”, an indication of his valuation of tactical identity and progression.

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Bayern are monitoring the situation closely and view him as a candidate to succeed Dayot Upamecano, who is set to leave on a free transfer. Dortmund are reluctant to lose another core player to a domestic rival and this factor alone strengthens Liverpool’s position should they formalise interest.

Konate’s Future Influencing Planning

Liverpool must also weigh internal variables. Sports Mole reported that Ibrahima Konate “has been surprisingly inconsistent with his form this season” and that some believe his contract situation is affecting his performances. L’Equipe stated that Liverpool have already offered fresh terms and remain hopeful of agreement.

Should Konate reject the contract extension, the club would be expected to move decisively. As the article notes, if renewal talks collapse, Liverpool “could make concrete efforts to land either Guehi, Upamecano or Schlotterbeck”. Slot and the recruitment team require clarity soon, particularly given that elite centre backs rarely come onto the market with long term potential and strong experience profiles.

Market Dynamics Suit Liverpool

Schlotterbeck has delivered six goals and sixteen assists across 134 Dortmund appearances, an unusually productive return for a central defender. While sections of the German press are “sceptical about Liverpool’s desire to sign Schlotterbeck”, the player’s contract stance and stylistic frustration open a window that Liverpool cannot dismiss.

The club’s planning remains meticulous and opportunistic, and this development places them in a stronger position to secure a player capable of anchoring the defence across the next cycle.

Our View, Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool supporter’s standpoint, this report triggers mixed emotions. On one hand, Schlotterbeck refusing a long term Dortmund extension feels like the type of early signal that the club have historically capitalised on. His comfort on the ball, proactive defensive instincts and age profile fit the blueprint of what Liverpool usually chase when they anticipate a gap emerging in the starting lineup.

The concern lies with uncertainty around Konate. His drop in form has been noticeable and although he remains a popular figure among fans, the prospect of losing him for free would be unacceptable for a club that prides itself on smart asset management. The squad cannot enter another season wrestling with defensive instability, especially with the standards Slot set on the way to the Premier League title.

Guehi, Schlotterbeck and Upamecano each bring different qualities, yet Schlotterbeck feels the most attainable and the most system ready. Dortmund preferring a sale abroad rather than strengthening Bayern puts Liverpool in a stronger negotiating lane. Supporters would welcome the club striking early rather than drifting into another summer where defensive arrivals lag behind the rest of the planning.

This development should be treated as an opportunity, and one that Liverpool cannot afford to overlook.