New twist: Schlotterbeck saga leaves Dortmund sweating | OneFootball

Nico Schlotterbeck's hesitation is causing growing unrest at BVB. Despite a top offer from Dortmund, the defensive chief is eyeing a move to Europe's top clubs.

Borussia Dortmund is working tirelessly to secure Nico Schlotterbeck to the club long-term – but the negotiation over the national player is increasingly becoming a test of nerves. The center-back, whose contract runs until 2027, continues to delay an early extension. At BVB, there is growing concern that the 26-year-old might decide against a future in black and yellow.

Schlotterbeck is supposed to play a central role at BVB – from being a promotional figure to the defensive chief and even a potential captain. However, whether the defender will accept this perspective is uncertain. According to Sky, "nervousness is rising in Dortmund" because Schlotterbeck is speculating on a move to an international top club. Real Madrid and FC Bayern, in particular, are still considered attractive options.

BVB is showing financial willingness to make significant concessions. Schlotterbeck has a contract offer until 2030, which would catapult him into the top earner category. According to Sky, the club officials are even willing to "improve the offer once again." Although there is no fixed deadline, the officials hope for a decision by the end of January.

Is Barcelona also keen on BVB defensive chief Schlotterbeck?

Sporting developments are adding additional pressure. After the early exit from the DFB-Pokal and given the strong competition in the league and Champions League, it is uncertain whether Schlotterbeck can win titles with BVB in the near future. Since his move from Freiburg in 2022, success has eluded him – another reason why a "non-extension" is currently "the more realistic scenario," according to Sky.

At the same time, other European clubs have taken notice. FC Barcelona is closely monitoring the situation and, according to Sport, is developing "very precise plans" for a potential signing. Coach Hansi Flick, under whom Schlotterbeck made his debut in the DFB team in 2022, could play a key role. However, the financial leeway of the Catalans is considered a major obstacle; the demanded sum of around 40 million euros seems a difficult amount to manage.

The situation is further complicated by the fact that Dortmund might even come to terms with a free transfer departure in 2027 – provided that sporting goals like Champions League qualification remain achievable. BVB is eager to keep their defensive chief – but the longer the negotiation drags on, the greater the unrest in Dortmund.

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