Real Madrid have identified several central defensive targets over the months including the likes of Dayot Upamecano, Ibrahima Konate and Marc Guehi, but all options led to dead ends for varied reasons.
On that front, Diario AS bring a massive report to the forefront as they relay that Real Madrid are closing in on the big name they eye as a star defensive signing for next summer. The player in question is none other than Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck.
The Bundesliga star was not initially on Real Madrid’s list of targets, but his name has grown as an option in recent months and the Spanish outlet confirms that the club administration are slowly but surely locking in on his name.
A convincing option
The name of Schlotterbeck has reportedly generated serious consensus within the Real Madrid board, with several club leaders agreeing that he is the right profile they need.
For starters, his deal runs out in 2027, and the player is refusing to sign a renewal. The only option for him, thus, is to leave this summer for a fee or run his contract down and leave in 2027.
Schlotterbeck has impressed Real Madrid’s hierarchy (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)
From Real Madrid’s standpoint, they have amped up the scouting and follow-ups on Schlotterbeck in recent weeks and are increasingly impressed by his play.
The reports are increasingly positive, and the fact that Bayern Munich is no longer an option for him after Upamecano’s renewal makes him an even easier target.
Several clubs, including Barcelona, are interested in the German star, but Real Madrid have an excellent relationship with Dortmund and that could play a part in seeing the deal through.
It is expected to include a fee of close to €50 million, but it appears Real Madrid are willing to pay that sum.
Negotiations will formally begin only in the summer, and there is a long way to go before Los Blancos can get their hands on the player and attempt to lure him to Spain. All factors, however, look positive and in their favour.