New reports from Germany suggest that Barcelona continue to monitor Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck, although the interest remains exploratory rather than urgent.
According to journalist Patrick Berger of Sky Sports, the Bundesliga centre-back has admirers within the Catalan club, but he is not viewed as a top target at this stage, largely because several voices inside Barça are yet to be fully convinced by him.
Schlotterbeck’s connection with Barcelona manager Hansi Flick adds an interesting layer to the situation.
Notably, the pair worked together during Flick’s time with the German national team, and their relationship is said to be positive.
However, despite the familiarity, Flick is not pushing the club to make a move right now.
What is clear, though, is that Barcelona are actively evaluating options to reinforce the heart of their defence ahead of the summer.
Barcelona need a defender
The timing of this search is no coincidence. Andreas Christensen is expected to depart, while uncertainty continues to surround Ronald Araujo’s future at the club.
Nico Schlotterbeck is not a priority target for Barcelona. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)
Barcelona’s sporting department, therefore, find themselves exploring the market for a left-footed defender with strong technical ability.
Schlotterbeck fits that mould, which explains why he remains on the radar even if he is not the frontrunner internally.
Meanwhile, at Dortmund, the situation is equally delicate. Schlotterbeck’s current contract runs until 2027, yet the German international has not committed to a long-term decision about his future.
Dortmund have a renewal ready
In anticipation of potential interest from abroad, BVB have already prepared an extended deal that would keep him at the club until 2030.
While the club is not enforcing a strict deadline, they would prefer an answer by the end of January, allowing them to plan accordingly.
Barcelona’s defensive rebuild remains a priority. Whether Schlotterbeck becomes part of that solution is far from certain, but the player will undoubtedly continue to feature in internal discussions.