Bundesliga giants pushing defender to renew amid Barcelona, Bayern Munich approaches | OneFootball

Nico Schlotterbeck has emerged as one of the names on the radars of FC Barcelona as they scour the market for a new left-footed centre-back.

The departure of Inigo Martinez has left a void in the squad, which Deco & Co. wish to fill, with the name of the Borussia Dortmund defender emerging as an option, as his contract expires in 2027 and he has been reluctant to renew.

Dortmund pushing Schlotterbeck to renew

Borussia Dortmund, though, are growing increasingly uneasy about the future of Schlotterbeck, one of their standout players, and his reluctance to open talks over an extension.

Dortmund’s managing director, Lars Ricken, has made the club’s stance clear, issuing a warning through BILD (h/t SPORT):

“We won’t rush into anything. But, of course, we don’t want to drag this out indefinitely, everyone knows that.”

The Black and Yellows have been understanding of Schlotterbeck’s position, particularly as he has been recovering from a serious knee injury, but believe it is now time to define his long-term plans.

“He has every right to plan his future carefully. We respect that. And I believe that salary is not the most important factor, but rather perspective, confidence and conviction,” Ricken explained.

Reluctant to renew at Dortmund. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)

Schlotterbeck recently stated that renewal talks are not a current priority, leaving Dortmund aware that clubs such as Barcelona and Bayern Munich have already approached his entourage to explore the possibility of signing him.

Dortmund have presented Schlotterbeck with an offer that would double his current salary, structured through a fixed base and performance-related bonuses, potentially rising to €8 million per season.

However, the German giants fear that richer proposals may arrive soon and are therefore pushing to resolve the matter before January, aware that delays would greatly complicate negotiations.

An ideal fit for Barcelona

Schlotterbeck’s ball-playing ability, positional intelligence, and strong personality make him an ideal fit for Barcelona’s defensive profile.

Head coach Hansi Flick is understood to be very fond of the player and has already given his approval for the transfer, provided that the club’s financial situation allows it next summer.

The fact that he will be entering the final year of his contract in 2026, provided he does not renew, could make him an affordable option as well.