Real Madrid ‘to pursue’ Nico Schlotterbeck as 2026 rebuild gathers pace | OneFootball

Real Madrid have made Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck a leading summer target as they look to fortify their defence for 2026.

Bild claims the Germany international is unsure about extending a contract that runs to 2027, and Madrid’s interest has been relayed to his camp. He is currently considering only two options, staying in Dortmund or moving to the Bernabéu, with a decision possible before March fixtures against Switzerland and Ghana.

Planning for 2026-27 prioritises centre-back, with David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger entering the latter stages of their deals.

Left footed, composed in possession and aggressive in the challenge, the 26-year-old fits Madrid’s brief for a top-level addition.

Madrid want two centre-backs, one specifically left sided, which narrows the field. A fee of 40-50 million euros is viewed as manageable for a strategic signing.

Dortmund hope to extend and protect his contract, yet the final call rests with the player.

Bayern Munich considered him previously, but the situation around Dayot Upamecano and other defensive priorities has cooled any move, leaving a likely Dortmund-Madrid face-off.

Madrid are also working on the return of Nico Paz and assessing Endrick, two talents earmarked for the near term. Paz has shone in Serie A under Cesc Fàbregas, while Endrick has progressed after his Olympique de Lyon spell.

The 2026 project in Madrid is taking shape, with Schlotterbeck at the top of the list but not alone. The summer window could prove decisive.

Source: Superdeporte