Decision looming: Dortmund sweating over defensive leader Schlotterbeck | OneFootball

Nico Schlotterbeck continues to hesitate with his decision – and nerves are growing at BVB. The future of the defensive chief is influencing several key decisions in Dortmund’s squad.

At Borussia Dortmund, unrest is growing around Nico Schlotterbeck just before Christmas. The defensive leader is still hesitating to make a decision about his future – and according to WAZ, BVB is hoping for a clear signal before the holidays. After all, the entire defensive squad planning hinges on this personnel issue.

The club would like to secure the 25-year-old for the long term and is reportedly ready to make a significant financial offer. A hefty salary increase, the possibility of becoming one of the club’s top earners, and a promotion to the captaincy are said to be part of Dortmund’s offer.

But Schlotterbeck is taking his time. He initially explained the delays by citing his serious injury, and then by expressing a desire to wait and see how the team develops athletically. At least publicly, he emphasized: “BVB will of course be my first point of contact” – a statement that long gave club officials like Sebastian Kehl reason for optimism.

However, nerves are now mounting. This is also because BILD reported that the club’s unpromising title prospects could push Schlotterbeck toward a move.

Schlotterbeck Poker: Is BVB Facing a Worst-Case Scenario?

Currently, there are three possible future paths for Nico Schlotterbeck. One scenario would be a long-term contract extension at Borussia Dortmund. In addition, a move to FC Bayern is considered an option, where national titles would be almost guaranteed. The third possibility is a transfer abroad; media outlets have mentioned FC Barcelona, Liverpool FC, and Paris Saint-Germain as potential suitors.

Especially explosive: At BVB, the contracts of Emre Can and Niklas Süle expire in the summer, and Aaron Anselmino’s loan also ends. The departure of their defensive chief would therefore – as WAZ writes – be a “worst-case scenario.”

The club sees a “gritted-teeth alternative” in going into the final contract year with Schlotterbeck if necessary, even though he could leave on a free transfer in 2027. While Dortmund would not receive any money, at least they would be secured athletically.

The ball is now in Schlotterbeck’s court. His mentor Mats Hummels recently called him a “world-class center-back” and stated that “all doors are open” to him. At BVB, they are still hoping he chooses black and yellow – but a contract extension is far from a sure thing.

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