World Cup first, then England? Liverpool in the race for Schlotterbeck | OneFootball

Nico Schlotterbeck is heading to the World Cup. The fact that the 25-year-old central defender is part of the DFB squad for the 2026 World Cup is almost certain. Currently, it would be difficult to find a stronger German player in this position. However, whether the BVB defense chief will still be wearing the black and yellow jersey by then is quite questionable.

The furious 6-0 victory against Slovakia secured the team of national coach Julian Nagelsmann (38) the ticket for the tournament in the USA, Mexico, and Canada (June 11 to July 19, 2026) on Monday (November 17). Schlotterbeck aims for the highest goal for the World Cup. "We are still Germany!" he said in a ZDF interview. "We want to achieve something. I also want to go to the World Cup and win the thing."

The Dortmund defender wore the national team jersey for the 23rd time. Several more appearances are likely to follow before the World Cup kicks off next year. Schlotterbeck's top performances have not gone unnoticed by other clubs either. Despite a contract until 2027, the native of Waiblingen's stay at BVB is by no means guaranteed. If the price is right, almost any transfer is possible. This is the unwritten supreme law in professional football.

Liverpool with defense problems

According to Football-Insider, Liverpool FC, one of the industry's financially strongest representatives, has positioned itself. The Reds have dropped to eighth place in the Premier League after a strong start to the season. League leaders Arsenal are already eight points ahead. The defending champions have already conceded 17 goals, making them only the twelfth-best defense in the league. In contrast, the Gunners have only allowed five goals.

Despite having two absolute superstars in Liverpool's central defense with Virgil van Dijk (34) and Ibrahima Konaté (26), head coach Arne Slot (47) reportedly desires reinforcement for the defensive center. The choice has fallen on Schlotterbeck. LFC will "try to sign him and, if possible, bring him to England," transfer expert Pete O'Rourke is certain.

Since Konaté's contract expires in 2026, the Reds might be tempted to let the Frenchman go as early as January. Schlotterbeck could then be the one to replace him—either in the summer or even next winter. However, the final decision in this matter lies with BVB.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.