“We’re putting our foot down”: Dortmund push Schlotterbeck for a decision | OneFootball

Borussia Dortmund increases the pressure on Nico Schlotterbeck after the victory in Wolfsburg. BVB demands clarity about his future from the defense chief soon.

After the important 2-1 away win at VfL Wolfsburg, a topic at Borussia Dortmund is coming even more into focus than the victory itself: the future of Nico Schlotterbeck. Sporting director Sebastian Kehl made it publicly clear after the match that the club does not want to wait any longer and expects a timely decision from the defense chief.

“We are on the gas pedal,” Kehl stated unequivocally to Bild and added: “Nico knows that we want a decision as soon as possible!” A clear message to the 26-year-old, whose contract with BVB runs until 2027, but whose future has long become a central topic of conversation. Schlotterbeck had recently taken the lead not only in sports but also verbally.

With openly expressed title ambitions, the central defender attracted attention and emphasized his stance after the Wolfsburg game: “I am passionate about it.” Schlotterbeck's importance is repeatedly highlighted at the management level as well. Sporting director Lars Ricken praised his mentality and demeanor to the WAZ: “We like players who are ambitious and confident and stand up for themselves and their colleagues. We love that about him.”

Ricken ennobles Schlotterbeck with comparisons to BVB icons

To underscore this importance, Ricken even drew comparisons with former club icons like Jürgen Kohler or Mats Hummels – players who shaped the club's face for years. Behind the scenes, discussions are already in full swing. Dortmund is eager to keep Schlotterbeck and is said to have presented him with a long-term offer at the financial pain threshold.

According to Bild information, around 14 million euros per season are on the table, and in the event of an extension, even a possible release clause. At the same time, the officials know: If the national player hesitates too long, a sale might become necessary in the summer to still achieve a high transfer fee.

Schlotterbeck himself recently emphasized that he wants to take his time with his decision. “I have set a personal deadline for myself. But I won't say exactly when that is,” he said a few weeks ago. It is now clear: BVB is increasing the pressure and wants clarity – as soon as possible. Whether a decision will be made before the league summit against FC Bayern at the end of February remains open. However, the signs point to movement.

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