Real Madrid Fear They Will Lose Race For This Centre-Back To Liverpool: Why Is He Important For The Los Blancos? | OneFootball

Real Madrid continue to assess their options in defence. A few smart moves could define their long-term stability at the back. The Spanish giants, led by Xabi Alonso, are preparing for a busy summer. Their scouts are watching several players across Europe.

As they focus on strengthening their backline, we reported earlier that Real Madrid have set their sights on Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez as part of a broader rebuild. Yet, attention in Madrid now has shifted to Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck. His situation attracts strong interest from both Spain and England.

Real Madrid fear that they will lose the race for Nico Schlotterbeck

Spanish outlet Defensa Central reports that Real Madrid fear losing the race for the 25-year-old defender to Liverpool. The English champions have stepped up their interest. Schlotterbeck’s contract with Dortmund ends at the close of the season. His refusal to sign a new deal has alerted several top clubs.

Liverpool consider him an ideal addition to their defence, especially with Ibrahima Konate still refusing an extension. The German centre-back has shown consistency in the Bundesliga and remains calm in big matches. Many sides admire his reliability and control.

Liverpool believe he can fit smoothly into their system. His defensive strength, timing of the tackles, and comfort on the ball should match the Premier League’s pace. The 25-year-old’s leadership can replace Konate if he leaves. Meanwhile, Real Madrid continue to explore defensive options.

SINSHEIM, GERMANY – OCTOBER 10: Nico Schlotterbeck of Germany in action during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Germany and Luxembourg at PreZero-Arena on October 10, 2025 in Sinsheim, Germany. (Photo by Christian Kaspar-Bartke/Getty Images)

They aim to add more depth in the backline, especially since David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger will reach the end of their contracts in 2026. They have already shown interest in Liverpool’s Konate and Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi. Real Madrid are also showing interest in recruiting Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano as another possible signing.

Xabi Alonso’s tactical vision and the Schlotterbeck question

Schlotterbeck’s left-footed balance and defensive awareness should fit perfectly with Alonso’s plans for a flexible defensive shape. Real Madrid already signed Dean Huijsen this summer. Yet Alonso still seeks another central defender who can carry the ball out confidently and defend with aggression, and the German defender will suit that plan well. He plays comfortably in a high line and handles pressure with ease.

However, Liverpool’s strong interest complicates Madrid’s pursuit. The Premier League champions view Schlotterbeck as a long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk and possibly Konate. Real Madrid also keep monitoring the French defender’s situation closely. Bayern Munich are tracking Schlotterbeck as well, recognising his growing reputation across Europe.

In the end, Real Madrid’s success depends on how their internal talks progress. Alonso must decide whether Schlotterbeck fits his project perfectly. If Liverpool convince him first, Madrid could lose another major target. Either way, the summer promises a fierce battle for one of Germany’s most reliable defenders. The 25-year-old looks ready to shape the next era of defensive football.