Liverpool have been handed a boost in their pursuit of Borussia Dortmund centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck.
Arne Slot’s side are understood to be interested in signing Schlotterbeck, amid the expectation that Liverpool will target at least one new centre-back in the upcoming windows.
Virgil van Dijk will turn 35 in July, while there is uncertainty surrounding Ibrahima Konate’s future at the club. Konate’s contract is due to expire in the summer with Real Madrid keen on the Frenchman.
Schlotterbeck has been placed on the club’s shortlist and German outlet BILD are reporting that the defender is open to leaving Dortmund.
The 25-year-old has turned down a new contract at the Westfalenstadion and is unhappy with the club’s style of play under head coach Niko Kovac. Schlotterbeck will have just 12 months to run on his contract in the summer, increasing the pressure on Dortmund to sell. Bayern Munich are also tracking Schlotterbeck and could rival Liverpool in a potential pursuit.
Liverpool’s need for a centre-back comes after the club saw a deadline day move for Crustal Palace captain Marc Guehi collapse in the summer. The deal broke down after the Eagles failed to source a replacement in time.
The Reds had agreed a £35m fee for the England international and are expected to return, with Guehi’s contract expiring in 2026.
However, competition has been increased for the 25-year-old, with Real Madrid. Barcelona and Bayern Munich monitoring the defender.
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