Arne Slot meets Nico Schlotterbeck as Liverpool try to hijack Real Madrid’s move
Liverpool manager Arne Slot is reported to have personally met with Nico Schlotterbeck in a major attempt to hijack Real Madrid’s pursuit of the Borussia Dortmund star.
According to journalist Jorge C. Picon, Slot took the lead in introducing Liverpool’s long-term project to the German world, hoping to convince him to choose Anfield over the Bernabeu.
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Schlotterbeck, 26, has emerged as one of the most sought-after defenders in Europe. While Dortmund recently offered him a lucrative renewal offer to extend his stay beyond 2027, the lure of a big move remains strong.
Liverpool want to sign Nico Schlotterbeck
The Reds’ interest in Schlotterbeck is more than a casual inquiry; it’s a calculated move to protect a world-class replacement with their aging defensive core.
Liverpool consider the left-footed German to be a perfect fit for Slot’s top-line system, offering technical ball-playing ability and physical dominance.
However, the competition is fierce. Real Madrid are reportedly currently considered to be the frontrunners, and reports from Spain indicate that the Spanish giants are currently in a good position to secure the midfielder.
With Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba nearing the end of their contracts, Madrid are eyeing Schlotterbeck as the future of their defence.
Slot’s personal intervention appears to be an attempt to personally convince the player’s preferences in the Premier League.
According to the journalist: “Borussia Dortmund have given him a very good offer to renew his contract (which expires in 2027) and they still hope that he will stay with the club.
“Real Madrid are following the footsteps of the German player, who they like very much.
“Another club that wants him is Liverpool. Arne Slot even met him to tell him about the project and try to convince him.
? Things to do in Schlotterbeck:
El Borussia Dortmund has presented a very good offer to renew his contract (ending in 2027) and have returned to recover the hope of coming to the club.
El Real Madrid sigue la estela del aleman, que gusta mucho. Está between las Opciones… pic.twitter.com/q26IB4oMEe
— Picón (@JorgeCPicon) March 10, 2026
Liverpool defender situation
The urgency behind Schlotterbeck’s pursuit comes from a brewing problem in Liverpool’s defence.
Iraima Konate is increasingly likely to leave at the end of the season; the Frenchman has yet to sign a new deal, and with his contract expiring in June, Real Madrid have reportedly made him a free transfer target.
Adding to the issue is the long-term uncertainty surrounding Virgil van Dijk.
While the captain signed an extension in 2025 to keep him at the club until 2027, he will be 36 when the deal expires.
By targeting Schlotterbeck now, Liverpool hope to ensure a smooth transition and avoid a defensive void like the one that has plagued their 2020/21 campaign.
