While centre-back is not a priority this summer, Manchester United’s attention has been drawn to Borussia Dortmund and Germany defender Nico Schlotterbeck.
Harry Maguire’s imminent contract extension has reduced Manchester United’s need to add a central defender this summer. But Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez’s injury problems could see a signing made.
Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro are the future, and also the present, but United could benefit from adding to the ranks with more games next season.
Now, Nico Schlotterbeck has emerged as an option.
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Nico Schlotterbeck in action for Germany.
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Manchester United interested in signing Nico Schlotterbeck
Now, speaking on Sky Sports Germany, Florian Plettenberg has claimed United are keen on Schlotterbeck.
“I can confirm that Man Utd are interested in Nico Schlotterbeck.
“If he doesn’t renew his contract, he’ll be available in the summer for €30m — €35m.”
This would be between £26m and £30m for United this summer, which is a steal for a player of Schlotterbeck’s quality.
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Despite being a brilliant defender, Schlotterbeck is best known for his top speed of 33.91 km/h, which would see him match some of the quickest in the league.
In efforts to convince Schlotterbeck not to re-sign with Dortmund, Christopher Vivell could be key, with the German being an expert in the Bundesliga with strong ties to the league.
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Schlotterbeck’s Germany display shows his quality to United
United players shone during the March international break, and so did new transfer target, Schlotterbeck, as he impressed particularly in Germany’s 2-1 win over Ghana.
90 minutes
97/105 Passes completed
2 Chances created
117 Touches
1/1 Dribbles completed
23 Passes into final third
4 Defensive contributions
1 Tackle
3 Recoveries
3/6 Ground duels won
3/5 Aerial duels won
His statistics from the match are impressive, particularly his passing, which is a big strength within his game.
Schlotterbeck is a left-footer and so probably comes in as a replacement for Lisandro Martinez if the Argentine’s persistent injuries have finally lost faith from the hierarchy.
Having Schlotterbeck and Heaven as long-term left-sided options is very strong for United, especially for the reported price tag.
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