Liverpool set to beat Real Madrid in the race for Bundesliga star – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool Sense Major Opportunity in Nico Schlotterbeck Chase

Real Madrid are not used to losing transfer battles, yet reports emerging from Spain suggest Los Blancos are reluctantly stepping aside in the pursuit of Nico Schlotterbeck. According to Defensa Central, there is a growing acceptance within the Santiago Bernabéu that Liverpool have surged ahead in their move for the Borussia Dortmund defender.

This shift comes after CF Bayern Insider indicated that Schlotterbeck would consider a proposal from Liverpool, with Bayern Munich also monitoring developments. Spanish outlet Defensa Central, relayed via CaughtOffside, went further by stating that Real Madrid have ‘definitively lost’ ground in the race for the 25-year-old.

That aligns with the recent guidance from journalist David Lynch, who confirmed that Liverpool ‘definitely do like and have watched’ the German. There now appears to be quiet confidence around Anfield that the groundwork laid could soon pay off.

Schlotterbeck Perfect Fit for Slot’s System

Arne Slot values centre-backs who can both defend aggressively and build attacks from deep, and Schlotterbeck fits the brief. Described by former coach Jörg Schuller for his ‘unstoppable‘ work ethic, his statistical profile is equally compelling.

As per FBref, over the past 12 months he ranks in the top 10% of European centre-backs for progressive passes, progressive carries, assists, shot-creating actions and successful take-ons. He also sits within the top 25% for tackles and blocks per 90 minutes. That blend of courage in possession and controlled aggression without the ball is exactly what Liverpool have lacked on certain occasions.

Contract Cloud Over Konate Accelerates Plans

The growing belief in Spain is that Real Madrid may instead pivot towards Ibrahima Konate, who is yet to agree a new deal at Liverpool and could leave on a free transfer next summer. If that scenario plays out, replacing one powerful, athletic defender with another of similar age and greater availability would be shrewd business.

Konate’s fitness record has frequently disrupted Liverpool’s rhythm, whereas Schlotterbeck has amassed close to 200 senior appearances across the Bundesliga and Champions League, in addition to 22 caps for Germany. Reliability is currency in elite football and Schlotterbeck appears to provide that in abundance.

FSG Ready to Strike?

Liverpool’s recruitment team, led by Richard Hughes, have historically thrived when acting decisively rather than entering extended bidding wars. If they truly sense weakness in Real Madrid’s stance, the window to strike may never be wider.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool fans will be quietly excited by this one, even if they have been burned before by premature transfer whispers. The key detail here is not just that Schlotterbeck is interested, but that Real Madrid appear to be backing off. That rarely happens unless they already know the player is likely to choose elsewhere.

Supporters will also recognise the long-term significance. Konate has been excellent in spells but has never managed to command a regular season without disruption. If he leaves next summer, Liverpool cannot afford to hesitate or downgrade. Schlotterbeck, at 25, already proven at Champions League level, would be the type of proactive signing title contenders make.

There will be natural hesitation until something firmer emerges but if Hughes really can take advantage of Madrid turning their attention elsewhere, this would be more than just a smart piece of business. It would be a statement that Liverpool are ready to win power battles off the pitch just as consistently as they have under Slot on it.