Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck is interested in a move to Liverpool, according to journalist Christian Falk.

Writing on his website CF Bayern Insider, Falk said he expects the Reds to touch base with the centre-back and his agent in the near future:

“There should soon be contact. He already has a contract offer (until the summer of 2030) on the table from Dortmund. However, if he accepts, he would just earn about €8m [£6.9m] gross – about €2.5m more than what he’s currently earning at BVB, and he’s not satisfied with this! So, with that in mind, Nico Schlotterbeck is open to offers!”

Schlotterbeck’s current deal expires in 2027 so a decision will have to be made on his future at the end of the season if he doen’t sign the extension with Dortmund.

Van Dijk’s successor is being lined up

Some fans might assume that Schlotterbeck is being targeted as a replacement for Ibrahima Konate, with the plan to play him alongside captain Virgil van Dijk. However, that is unlikely for one important reason.

The German international is left-footed so he can only play in the position that van Dijk currently occupies. He would, in all intents and purposes, be the Dutchman’s successor.

Liverpool will have competition for Schlotterbeck

German tabloid Bild have also reported that the 25-year-old has interest from several other teams, including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Manchester City.

Based on Falk’s report, it seems Schlotterbeck may well favour the club that hands him the biggest salary. That doesn’t really narrow down his potential destinations as all the sides mentioned can offer generous personal terms.

If van Dijk continues to impress despite getting on in years, Schlotterbeck may not see where he fits into the starting lineup if he does choose to move to Anfield, so that could be a factor in his decision. We shall have to wait and see how negotiations unfold.

Read more about the Liverpool First Team Squad for 2025/26 here