Liverpool ‘in talks’ to sign £50m defender in 2026 | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Defensive Reset Edges Closer As Talks Begin For Bundesliga Standout

Credit to TeamTalk for the original reporting that has sparked fresh debate around Liverpool’s long term defensive rebuild. The latest development centres on Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck, a player long admired by recruitment departments across Europe. According to TeamTalk, initial discussions have taken place between his representatives and a number of elite clubs ahead of a possible transfer in summer 2026. Crucially, this list includes Liverpool.

Contract Stalemate Creates Opportunity

Schlotterbeck’s contract at Dortmund runs until 2027, but TeamTalk report that he has “shunned their advances over a new contract” and wishes to assess what options may be available to him. His camp are not ruling out fresh terms, yet the landscape is shifting. Bayern Munich are described as “firm favourites” while Real Madrid and Barcelona are monitoring the situation.

Premier League interest is confirmed, with Liverpool maintaining contact for “more than 12 months”. The club enter 2026 with significant defensive requirements and the expectation that two centre backs could arrive across the next two transfer windows. That context adds weight to TeamTalk’s claim that Schlotterbeck is “very much on their radar”.

Photo: IMAGO

Strategic Fit For Liverpool’s Evolving Back Line

Liverpool’s search for a left sided central defender has been one of football’s open secrets. TeamTalk note that Schlotterbeck’s profile is especially appealing because “the fact he is left footer makes him extra attractive to Liverpool who will eventually need to replace Virgil van Dijk on the left side of their centre back pairing”.

Van Dijk remains a towering influence, yet forward planning is non negotiable at elite level. Schlotterbeck, named in “three of the last four Bundesliga teams of the season”, offers experience, aerial dominance and progressive distribution. Sources cited by TeamTalk believe Liverpool “would have a say in where the left footer ends up” should a Premier League move transpire.

The fee is likely to be substantial. Unlike Marc Guehi and Dayot Upamecano, both of whom may become free agents next summer, Schlotterbeck would command a figure close to £50 million. Dortmund, as TeamTalk remind us, “are no stranger to cashing in on their best players for huge profits”.

Market Timing And Tactical Priorities

Schlotterbeck’s representatives are playing the long game, ensuring their client is positioned for the strongest possible move in 2026. Liverpool’s approach has been similarly measured. Recruitment under Arne Slot has leaned on tactical clarity, ball confident defenders and players comfortable operating in high transition environments.

The German international fits that mould. His blend of anticipation and composure aligns with the club’s medium term aims, particularly as they phase through a gradual evolution of their defensive core. As one source within the TeamTalk report suggests, “a move to the Premier League is more than possible”. Liverpool’s continued involvement keeps them firmly in contention.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool supporters will greet this update with a familiar mix of excitement and realism. Schlotterbeck has been linked for what feels like an eternity, and the confirmation that talks have taken place with his representatives strengthens belief that the club are genuinely in the frame. The idea of securing a left footed successor to Van Dijk has been discussed across fan circles for years, and the Dortmund defender is one of the few who seems stylistically suited to Slot’s approach.

The price tag near £50 million might feel steep, but Liverpool fans will remember how similar fees once seemed daunting before proving excellent value in the long run. Schlotterbeck has the pedigree, the consistency and the ceiling to justify that type of investment. The question becomes timing. If Bayern step up their interest, negotiations could shift quickly. Liverpool will need clarity on their wider defensive plans, especially with two centre backs potentially arriving before 2027.

For supporters, this report adds fuel to the belief that the club are preparing for a substantial defensive reset. If Schlotterbeck is the first piece of that rebuild, many would welcome it.