Barcelona manager holds strong admiration for a 25-year-old Bundesliga defender | OneFootball

Barcelona’s search for a reliable left-footed centre-back continues to intensify, and a recent report from SPORT reveals that Hansi Flick has placed Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck high on his list of preferred reinforcements. 

The outlet mentions that the German remains a strong admirer of the 25-year-old and sees qualities in him that fit perfectly with what Barça currently lack.

Since the departure of Inigo Martinez, Flick has tested several internal solutions to fill the void on the left side of his defence. 

He initially turned to young Pau Cubarsi, hoping the academy gem could adapt quickly. However, as the season progressed, Eric Garcia began to grow into the role, showing consistency and composure that Flick values deeply. 

For now, Cubarsi and Garcia have become the manager’s first-choice pairing, but the club is fully aware that depth in central defence is still thin and that another reliable option is needed.

A perfect option to have

This is where Schlotterbeck becomes the most attractive target. 

Hansi Flick is a big fan of Nico Schlotterbeck. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

His left-footed profile, style of play, and tactical reading make him the closest match to what Iñigo offered, but with even more dynamism. 

Schlotterbeck is widely praised for his superb ability to break lines with pinpoint passes, carrying an “exquisite left foot” that allows him to deliver long balls with ease. 

His natural aggressiveness, commanding duels, and quick recovery pace make him an ideal partner for a ball-playing defender like Cubarsi.

The contractual situation

Meanwhile, Barcelona also see an opportunity in his contract situation. 

Schlotterbeck’s current deal with Dortmund runs until 2027, a position that theoretically makes negotiations easier. 

Dortmund have already proposed an extension until 2030, but the defender is’ in no hurry to renew’. 

However, the real challenge lies in competition. Apart from his market value, Bayern Munich are also pressing hard, making the race for his signature increasingly complicated.