Nico Schlotterbeck of Borussia Dortmund
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Nico Schlotterbeck is one of the most sought-after defender in Europe heading into 2026, given his contract situation at Borussia Dortmund.
The 26-year-old German international’s deal with the Black and Yellows expires in 2027, meaning he will be entering the final year of his contract this summer.
Despite several attempts from the Bundesliga giants, Schlotterbeck has not signed an extension, opening the doors for a potential summer exit.
Nico Schlotterbeck hoping for Real Madrid or Bayern Move
Now, according to Sky Sports Germany, Schlotterbeck is holding off on a renewal at Borussia Dortmund as he is ‘gambling on’ a possible move to either Real Madrid or Bayern Munich in the summer.
The German centre-back is fully aware that Los Blancos will be needing a new defender in the summer, given that David Alaba will leave in the summer as a free agent and Antonio Rudiger’s future also remains undecided.
Nico Schlotterbeck of Borussia Dortmund
Schlotterbeck would be open to Real Madrid move. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)
There have been tentative links to Schlotterbeck, and the player himself now seems to be open to the idea of making the switch to the Santiago Bernabeu.
Meanwhile, Schlotterbeck would also consider making a move to Bayern Munich, who are trying to secure a contract renewal for Dayot Upamecano, with his current one expiring at the end of the season.
Interestingly, Upamecano happens to be a key target for Real Madrid, who are very much exploring the possibility of signing the Frenchman for free in the summer.
All of this sets up for a potential transfer merry-go-round in the summer, with Real Madrid and Bayern Munich at the centre of it. Not to forget, Los Blancos’ arch-rivals, FC Barcelona, also hold an interest in Schlotterbeck as well as Upamecano.
Florentino Perez, Real Madrid president
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Nasser Al Khelaifi, Aleksandar Ceferin and Joan Laporta
Laporta with the presidents of UEFA and the ECA. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)