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Liverpool is tracking Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck ahead of the January window.
DaveOCKOP has already detailed that Liverpool have held talks and that their interest in the German is genuine and growing.
The 26-year-old has developed into a key figure at the heart of Dortmund’s defence since his €25 million switch from SC Freiburg in 2022, earning a reputation as one of the standout left-footed centre-backs in the Bundesliga.
With his contract running until 2027, Dortmund now face a familiar crossroads: consider a sizable fee while his value remains high, or hold firm and risk edging closer to a situation where their defensive linchpin could move on for nothing in around 18 months’ time.
Earlier this week, we detailed reports from Spain that Barcelona have made signing a left-footed centre-back a priority following Iñigo Martínez’s departure, and manager Hansi Flick is keen on Schlotterbeck.
Now Diario Sport have likewise come out to report that the Dortmund defender is on the radar of Barcelona.
What gives Barcelona a significant edge in any potential deal is Flick’s existing relationship with Schlotterbeck.
The former Germany boss knows the defender intimately, having handed him his senior international debut during World Cup qualifying back in September 2021.
That connection could prove decisive, with it being suggested Flick has personally requested his signing and believes Schlotterbeck would be the ideal fit for Barcelona’s high defensive line and pressing system.
The German manager will be willingly to try and convince the defender of a move to the Camp Nou.
Dortmund’s attempts to tie Schlotterbeck down to a new deal have reportedly stalled, with the player turning down an offer that would have seen his wages rise from €2.5 million to €8 million annually.
With his contract expiring in 2027, the Black and Yellows may be forced to sell next summer rather than risk losing him for nothing. Barcelona are believed to be preparing an offer in the region of €40 million.
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