Real Madrid move for Bundesliga defender gaining weight, could cost at least €50m | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s long-term planning in defence is beginning to crystallise, and a familiar name from the Bundesliga is moving to the forefront of the club’s thinking. 

According to a recent update from BILD, the possibility of Nico Schlotterbeck ending up at the Santiago Bernabeu is becoming increasingly concrete, with developments on both the player and club side aligning more clearly than before.

The report states that Borussia Dortmund would prefer to sell the German international abroad rather than strengthen a domestic rival, and they have set a clear valuation of above €50 million for his services. 

This development puts Real Madrid in a favourable position, given their willingness to invest in defenders who fit a long-term sporting vision rather than short-term fixes.

Real Madrid need a defender

It has been widely known for some time that Real Madrid plan to enter the market for a new centre-back at the end of the season. 

With question marks surrounding injuries, ageing profiles, and future exits, the club’s recruitment department has been assessing several elite-level options. 

Until recently, names such as Ibrahima Konate and Dayot Upamecano dominated discussions inside and outside the club. However, the landscape has shifted significantly.

Nico Schlotterbeck is likely to leave Germany. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)

Konate’s profile, while admired, is now dividing opinions within the club. Concerns over consistency and suitability have cooled enthusiasm, and that uncertainty has effectively pushed the Liverpool defender down the priority list.

Meanwhile, Upamecano’s situation has become even clearer, as his Bayern Munich contract is basically guaranteed, so any thoughts of him joining Real Madrid have been largely eliminated. 

A market opportunity

This is where Schlotterbeck’s case becomes particularly compelling. Unlike the other two options, the Dortmund defender’s contract runs until 2027, and there is currently no renewal agreement in place. 

With time slowly ticking down and no breakthrough in negotiations, the expectation in Germany is that a summer 2026 exit is becoming increasingly likely.

Borussia Dortmund have made attempts to secure his long-term future, aware of his importance both on and off the pitch. 

However, there is a growing belief that Schlotterbeck has already made up his mind regarding the next step in his career. 

That conviction is a key reason why links with Real Madrid have suddenly intensified and gained credibility.