Arne Slot smiling on the left with Nico Schlotterbeck focused on the right
Credit: IMAGO
Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent
Tue 18 November 2025 8:00, UK
Liverpool are in the race to sign Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck on potentially a cheaper deal than first anticipated.
Everton’s former chief Keith Wyness exclusively told Football Insider that Liverpool are prioritising a defensive signing in January to ease their vulnerabilities this season.
Arne Slot appears to be acting fast on that claim with Liverpool in the running to sign Schlotterbeck as his much needed centre-back.
Yet, sources told Football Insider that Bayern Munich will push Liverpool in a bid to land Schlotterbeck which could complicate a possible deal.
Vincent Kompany looking stern
Credit: Imago
Schlotterbeck unresolved contract concern to open door for Liverpool swoop
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, the Reds are keen to land the 25-year-old to sure up their leaky defence.
Slot’s side have conceded 17 goals in 11 Premier League matches, whereas main title challengers Arsenal have let in just five goals.
Yet, with the Borussia Dortmund defender adamant on leaving Germany in the near future with his contract expiring at the end of next season, an opening has revealed itself for Liverpool.
Arne Slot applauds Liverpool fans
Credit: Imago
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Speaking on the Inside Track podcast, I explained: “Liverpool will be definitely in that race to try and sign him and bring him to England if they can.
“A top player like that, you might be able to get him for a cut-price fee next summer, especially if he’s going into the final year of his contract with Dortmund without any agreement on an extension.
“They might be able to get him for a lot lower fee than you would normally expect for a current Germany international as well.”
Schlotterbeck arrival to see Ibrahima Konate departure
With one defender potentially on his way to Anfield, it could spell the end of another centre-back’s time on Merseyside.
Ibrahima Konate in action for Liverpool in the Premier League
Credit: Imago
Former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown exclusively told Football Insider that Liverpool could be prepared to accept a big offer for Ibrahima Konate in January.
The Frenchman is set to leave on a free at the end of the season upon his contract expiration, yet the Reds will be keen to cash in on him before it is too late.
The former RB Leipzig defender has endured a difficult start to the 2025-26 campaign, prompting speculation that Slot is happy to part with him before the end of the season.