Real Madrid refuse to rule out €50 million-rated Bundesliga defender despite injury setback | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s search for a new centre-back remains active, and Nico Schlotterbeck continues to feature prominently on the club’s shortlist despite suffering an injury that could delay any potential move.

The Borussia Dortmund defender has long been admired within Valdebebas, with Real Madrid viewing him as one of the strongest options available to reinforce a backline that has endured significant problems in recent months. 

While an ankle injury sustained during the FIFA World Cup has complicated matters, it has not removed Schlotterbeck from the club’s transfer plans.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Real Madrid are still monitoring the German international closely as they weigh up their options in the centre-back market.

Schlotterbeck stays on Real Madrid’s shortlist

Finding another high-level defender remains one of Real Madrid’s priorities this summer, particularly after a season in which injuries exposed the squad’s lack of depth in central defence.

On that note, Schlotterbeck has emerged as one of the names under serious consideration. 

Schlotterbeck has suffered an injury. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

The Borussia Dortmund star is highly rated for his ability to play out from the back, dominate aerially and operate comfortably in a high defensive line, although it must be noted that he is not alone under consideration.

It must be remembered that the 26-year-old recently signed a new contract with Dortmund, but the agreement includes a clause that would allow him to leave for selected clubs for around €50 million. 

Real Madrid are believed to be among the teams covered by that provision, making the operation considerably more realistic than other elite defensive targets.

World Cup injury creates doubts for Mourinho

The biggest obstacle currently facing any potential transfer is Schlotterbeck’s fitness.

The defender suffered an ankle injury during the World Cup and is expected to spend roughly two months on the sidelines. 

As a result, he will not only miss the remainder of the tournament but could also be unavailable when the new La Liga season begins.

Real Madrid are not abandoning Schlotterbeck’s pursuit. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

That is far from ideal for Mourinho, who wants his squad settled as early as possible ahead of a campaign in which Real Madrid will be expected to challenge on multiple fronts.

Missing the opening weeks of the season inevitably reduces Schlotterbeck’s appeal compared to fully fit alternatives. 

Ideally, Real Madrid’s coaching staff would prefer any new signing to arrive ready to contribute immediately rather than spend part of pre-season recovering.

Nevertheless, the injury has not caused the club to abandon its interest.

Real Madrid are still maintaining regular checks on the player’s recovery process and remain interested in how quickly he returns to full fitness.