German centre-back’s chances of joining Real Madrid rise significantly – report | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s summer rebuild may not be over just yet, with the Spanish giants stepping up their search for another central defender.

In that regard, Borussia Dortmund star Nico Schlotterbeck is emerging as one of the strongest candidates to strengthen Jose Mourinho’s squad.

The Real Madrid manager has already overseen a busy transfer window, bringing in Ibrahima Konate, Denzel Dumfries and Marc Cucurella as part of an ambitious effort to refresh the team ahead of the new season. 

However, defensive reinforcements remain a priority, and Schlotterbeck is increasingly viewed as a realistic option.

Schlotterbeck is the preferred target

According to Mundo Deportivo, Mourinho is a strong admirer of Schlotterbeck and believes the Borussia Dortmund defender possesses the qualities required to strengthen Real Madrid’s backline.

Schlotterbeck could move to Real Madrid. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)

In fact, the report mentions that the centre-back’s chances of joining Real Madrid this summer are rising quite significantly.

The 26-year-old has been linked with a move to Real Madrid on several occasions in recent months, and despite recently extending his contract with Dortmund, speculation surrounding his future has refused to disappear.

One of the main reasons is a clause included in his renewal agreement. 

Reports claim that Schlotterbeck negotiated a release clause that can be activated by a select group of clubs, with Real Madrid among those eligible to trigger it.

That clause is expected to become active this summer and could allow the Spanish giants to sign the German international for a fee in the region of €50 to €60 million.

Schlotterbeck is a smart market opportunity

Mourinho admires Schlotterbeck’s profile. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

Real Madrid’s interest is not solely based on availability, as Schlotterbeck’s profile aligns with the type of defender Mourinho is believed to be seeking.

The Dortmund centre-back combines physical strength with composure in possession and has gained significant experience at the highest level of European football. 

His ability to play in an aggressive defensive system while remaining comfortable building from the back makes him an attractive option for a team looking to compete on multiple fronts.

According to the outlet, there remains a genuine possibility that the defender could leave Dortmund this summer despite his recent commitment to the Bundesliga club.

That scenario has encouraged Real Madrid to continue monitoring developments as they assess their defensive priorities ahead of the new campaign.