Barcelona target €40m Borussia Dortmund star to bolster defence – Report | OneFootball

Following the departure of Inigo Martinez last summer, FC Barcelona have been without a natural left-footed centre-back, a void that has become increasingly apparent in Hansi Flick’s defensive structure. The Blaugrana coach has experimented with several centre-back pairings, but a long-term solution remains a priority for the Catalan club.

According to Fichajes, Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck has emerged as one of Barcelona’s top defensive targets. The German international has reportedly put renewal talks with the Bundesliga side on hold, as he evaluates his next career move.

At 25, Schlotterbeck is regarded as one of the most promising left-footed defenders in Europe. Known for his composure on the ball, strength in aerial duels, and ability to build from the back, he fits perfectly into Barcelona’s preferred style of play.

His potential arrival would not only restore balance to the backline but also support Flick’s vision of rejuvenating the squad with players in their prime years.

However, FC Barcelona are not alone in the race. Bayern Munich are also closely monitoring the defender’s situation, with the Bavarian club looking to strengthen their defensive depth amid uncertainty surrounding some of their current players.

From Dortmund’s perspective, losing Schlotterbeck would be a significant blow. He remains a key figure in Niko Kovac’s side, but with less than two years left on his contract, the German club could be forced to consider a sale next summer to avoid losing him for a reduced fee later on.

For Schlotterbeck, a move to a club of greater continental ambition represents the next logical step in his career. He has continued to develop steadily at Dortmund, but sources close to him indicate that he is eager to take a ‘competitive leap‘ and play for a team capable of contending for both domestic and European titles.

Within Barcelona, the defender’s profile is highly rated by the technical staff. Hansi Flick views reinforcing the central defence as essential if the club is to compete at the highest level, and Schlotterbeck’s combination of experience, youth, and left-footed balance makes him a strategic target.

The €40 million-rated German defender himself reportedly finds the idea of joining Barcelona attractive, both for the chance to work under Flick and to form part of a young, ambitious team.

Financial constraints could make any potential deal challenging, but Barcelona’s need for a natural left-footed centre-back remains urgent. With several top clubs showing interest, Nico Schlotterbeck’s future is set to become one of the major transfer stories of 2026, as Borussia Dortmund look to keep him and Barcelona continue to dream of bringing him to the Camp Nou.