"It would be great if he stayed here longer" – Kovac hopeful of new deal for Schlotterbeck | OneFootball

With his current contract running until 2027, Nico Schlotterbeck will have to decide whether to commit to a new long-term deal with Borussia Dortmund or explore a move next summer.

Clubs like Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are reportedly keeping a close eye on Schlotterbeck’s situation, but BVB coach Niko Kovac hopes the centre-back will remain loyal to the Black and Yellows.

“He is a German international. He holds a very high value within the team. He is also highly regarded by the fans. Nowadays, it’s not easy to become so popular with the fans. He has achieved that through the way he plays football and how he lives it,” Kovac told Sky.

“We’re here in the Ruhr area, and you really need the emotions and aggressiveness – and he brings that, alongside his footballing qualities. That’s why it would be great if he stayed here longer. […] He knows what he has with this club.”

Having recently returned from a long-term injury, Schlotterbeck experienced full backing from both the club and fans during his spell on the sidelines, something Kovac believes could influence his decision.

“I think he realised, during the time he was injured, that he had full support, that every single person here supported him, and that we offered him everything humanly possible to help him move forward. He’s aware of that, and I’m sure he will make the right decision for himself.”