FC Barcelona seem to be very interested in signing a centre-back in the upcoming summer, and it does look like they are leaving no stones unturned in the search for the right one. Among the many names linked with a potential move to the Catalan club is Borussia Dortmund star Nico Schlotterbeck.
However, it looks like Barcelona will have to take him off their list. As per reputed journalist Matteo Moretto, Dortmund are very close to renewing Schlotterbeck’s contract until 2031. Just as importantly, the new agreement is expected to include a release clause.
That is a significant development from a Barcelona perspective. Once a club reaches this stage in talks with a player, the situation usually changes from a possible opportunity to a much more complicated chase.
In an earlier update, Moretto had said Dortmund wanted to extend the €55 million-rated German centre-back’s deal, which currently runs until 2027, but that the player was aware of strong outside interest and was taking his time. The journalist also said that Schlotterbeck was very attracted by the idea of playing for Real Madrid.
Schlotterbeck is the kind of defender who would make sense on paper: left-footed, comfortable in possession, aggressive in duels, and experienced at a high level. But if Dortmund tie him down until 2031, any future move immediately becomes harder and more expensive.
The mention of a release clause is interesting. A clause can create a path, but it can also be set at a level designed to keep most clubs away. The interest in joining Madrid doesn’t help Barcelona either.
For Barcelona, it’s right now about taking one name off the immediate shortlist but also keeping an eye out, should an opportunity arise in the coming months.
El Borussia Dortmund está muy cerca de renovar a Nico Schlotterbeck hasta 2031.
El nuevo acuerdo incluirá una cláusula de rescisión.
Se trata de un paso importante por parte del club alemán, que en los últimos días ha avanzado considerablemente en las negociaciones, tal y como… https://t.co/ScAkSMTKw0
— Matteo Moretto (@MatteMoretto) March 24, 2026