Just in: Real Madrid rule out move for Borussia Dortmund defender | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s search for a new centre-back has taken another turn, with Nico Schlotterbeck no longer considered a realistic option for the Spanish giants.

According to The Athletic, club sources have effectively ruled out Nico Schlotterbeck to Real Madrid, despite the Borussia Dortmund defender having been admired internally for a considerable period.

The German international had previously emerged as one of the preferred candidates to strengthen a defence that struggled with inconsistency and injuries over the past season. 

However, circumstances have changed significantly in recent weeks.

The latest Real Madrid transfer news suggests that while Jose Mourinho remains keen on adding another defender to his squad, Schlotterbeck has now fallen out of contention.

Schlotterbeck injury update alters Real Madrid plans

Nico Schlotterbeck is out for two months. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

The Borussia Dortmund defender suffered an ankle injury during the FIFA World Cup, a setback that is expected to keep him out for around two months.

That timeline means Schlotterbeck will not only miss the remainder of the tournament but could also be unavailable for the opening weeks of the new La Liga campaign.

Earlier reports indicated that Real Madrid continued to monitor the player despite his injury concerns, believing his qualities still made him one of the best options available in the market.

However, Mario Cortegana has now revealed that Nico Schlotterbeck is out of the Real Madrid running, significantly reducing the chances of any deal materialising this summer.

Fitness concerns appear to have played a major role in the decision, especially given Madrid’s desire to recruit players capable of making an immediate impact.

Mourinho has demanded a new centre-back. (Photo by Alex Broadway/Getty Images)

Missing the start of the season inevitably affects Schlotterbeck’s attractiveness compared to alternative targets who are fully available.

Mourinho wants a new centre-back

Jose Mourinho’s plans for  Real Madrid include another defensive signing before the transfer window closes.

The Portuguese manager is understood to have requested reinforcements at centre-back, with the club acknowledging the need to add depth following a campaign heavily disrupted by injuries.

On that note, with Schlotterbeck no longer among the leading candidates, attention has started shifting towards other names under consideration.

One player increasingly linked with the Santiago Bernabeu is Tomas Araujo, who is believed to fit the profile Madrid are seeking, although there has been no movement on that front.