Manchester United are set to challenge Liverpool for Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck
Manchester United move into another tense transfer battle as they look to make a move for Nico Schlotterbeck, and the story gathers momentum because a report from TEAMtalk claims Liverpool watch the same defender with interest.
Things change once again because the Borussia Dortmund centre-back enters the final months of his contract, and his club feels the strain of a January sale, which opens a chance that both English sides will examine closely. Manchester United sense an opportunity here, and they look at the 25-year-old as a player who can strengthen their back line with his presence, timing of tackles, and solid distribution skills.
What’s the stance of Dortmund?
Meanwhile, Dortmund feel under pressure because Schlotterbeck’s deal runs down (contract till June 30, 2027), and they know the market value of €45–50 million may shrink if they hold him for too long, so they will listen to offers with far more urgency.
Manchester United are set to challenge Liverpool for Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck.
The defender could be tempted to take on a new challenge
Manchester United evaluate the numbers, but they keep their focus on the sporting angle, as they monitor how his style fits their broader push to strengthen a defence that often feels stretched.
Even so, Liverpool’s interest adds another twist, and that makes the race feel even more competitive, though Manchester United give the sense that they want the defender badly enough to stay in the fight until the window shuts.
Will he be a good signing for Manchester United?
The 25-year-old German defender is still young and is aggressive while defending. He has proper physical traits and carries exceptional ball-playing abilities. Moreover, Schlotterbeck also shines in ground and aerial duels.
He uses his pace and strength to win back possession. Moreover, the German also helps in the creative side of things right from the backline and is equally good with progressive passes. Therefore, the 25-year-old will be a major upgrade for any club looking for strength in their backline.
The Red Devils currently use three at the back in Ruben Amorim’s system, and he will certainly be a regular in the back three. Lisandro Martinez has just returned from injury, while the Red Devils need a replacement for Harry Maguire, whose contract with the club expires in the summer of 2026.
Although the English defender has been in the news for the possibility of extending his contract, Schlotterbeck will be a major upgrade over him. However, the bigger problem will be the competition with Liverpool. The Reds are the defending champions of the Premier League and are in a better sporting situation than United. So, the German might be tempted to feature at Anfield to win regular trophies if the Reds do make a decisive move for him.