Liverpool need a replacement: should Dortmund fear for Schlotterbeck? | OneFootball

After the surprising contract bombshell involving Ibrahima Konaté, an important spot in Liverpool FC’s defense could soon become vacant. That, in turn, could have implications for Nico Schlotterbeck’s future at Borussia Dortmund.

At Borussia Dortmund, the latest developments at Liverpool are likely being followed with particular interest. That is because the apparently imminent departure of center-back Ibrahima Konaté could affect Nico Schlotterbeck’s future.

As Sky and the Daily Mail consistently report, Liverpool and the French international have been unable to agree on a contract extension. According to the reports, Konaté will leave the Reds on a free transfer after the World Cup. This would leave a key position in central defense open for the English champions, one that would have to be filled in the summer.

This is exactly where Schlotterbeck comes into the picture. Although Dortmund’s defensive leader only extended his contract a few months ago until 2031, he reportedly secured a release clause in the deal. According to reports, only three top European clubs can activate this clause, including Real Madrid and Liverpool. The stipulated transfer fee is said to be between €50 million and €60 million. If Konaté leaves, Liverpool will likely have to become active in the transfer market. The Frenchman was one of the Reds’ absolute key performers last season and made 51 competitive appearances.

Schlotterbeck’s release clause at BVB remains a hot topic

For Dortmund, the situation could therefore become uncomfortable once again. After all, Schlotterbeck’s contract extension was not met with enthusiasm by all fans. The reason was the apparently included transfer option, which some supporters interpreted as a back door.

Photo: IMAGO

The Germany international himself, meanwhile, is trying to block out the discussions. Shortly before the start of the World Cup, he recently made it clear that the tournament is currently his sole focus. “I don’t really see it that way, putting myself in the shop window because of a World Cup,” Schlotterbeck explained. The 26-year-old also emphasized: “My focus is clearly on the World Cup. I’m not going into it with the idea of playing especially well because of a contract.”

Even so, the situation remains intriguing. The release clause is reportedly valid only for a limited period in July, which would coincide exactly with the hot phase of the World Cup. If Liverpool really do start looking for a new defender after a possible Konaté departure, Schlotterbeck could quickly come into focus.

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