Schlotterbeck alternative from Korea? BVB have Han-beom Lee in sight | OneFootball

Speculation that Nico Schlotterbeck could still leave Borussia Dortmund this summer will probably only end once the release clause agreed as part of the contract extension signed in April through 2031 has expired. The Germany international can still activate it until mid-July, so potential replacements will presumably continue to be linked with the club until then — as is currently the case with Han-beom Lee.

As reported by Teamtalk, BVB are among the clubs that have made closer inquiries about Lee and are monitoring his situation at FC Midtjylland.

The 23-year-old moved from his homeland to Denmark in the summer of 2023, joining from FC Seoul, and his performances there have earned him recognition with the South Korean national team. In South Korea’s 2-1 opening win over the Czech Republic at the 2026 World Cup, Lee was in the starting lineup for what was his ninth international appearance overall.

Numerous clubs showing interest

However, BVB are far from alone in their interest in Lee. From the Bundesliga, RB Leipzig have also been mentioned, while Napoli, AS Monaco and Olympique Lyon are also said to have taken notice. Above all, though, the 1.87-meter centre-back appears to have a market in the English Premier League.

Photo: Getty Images

Liverpool, Leeds United, Chelsea, Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion are all said to be among five English clubs that have been closely tracking Lee’s positive development for months and are impressed in several respects. Lee’s strength in challenges is valued just as much as his physical presence, good build-up play and strong tactical understanding, including his ability to adapt to different systems.

Because Lee’s contract with Midtjylland runs until 2027, a move this summer is considered far from unlikely. What seems completely open, however — likely also depending on the Schlotterbeck situation — is whether BVB will actually throw their hat into the ring.

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