Borussia Dortmund’s stance on Liverpool’s potential January move for Nico Schlotterbeck

According to BILD, Nico Schlotterbeck is currently delaying a decision on signing a new contract with Borussia Dortmund.

This hesitation comes amid growing reports linking Liverpool and several Premier League clubs with the talented Bundesliga centre-back.

Despite uncertainty surrounding the Germany international’s future, Dortmund are said to be firmly against selling him in January. However, with Liverpool facing an injury crisis in central defence, January reinforcements are becoming increasingly necessary.

While long-term target Marc Guehi appears unlikely to leave Crystal Palace mid-season — as the club wants to keep him for their ongoing campaigns — BILD now claims Liverpool could turn their attention to Schlotterbeck.

This potential move is influenced by injuries to Giovanni Leoni (18) and Ibrahima Konaté, the latter awaiting assessment after withdrawing from the French national team ahead of Liverpool’s clash with Manchester United. The club’s hierarchy also recognises the need to find a long-term successor for Virgil van Dijk, who turns 34 soon.

How good is Nico Schlotterbeck?

In short — very good.

The German media have heaped praise on Schlotterbeck following an impressive performance for Germany against Northern Ireland on Monday.

Fotmob awarded the 25-year-old an 8/10 rating, highlighting his strong defensive presence — winning 3 of 5 ground duels and 5 of 6 aerial duels.

Since recovering from a serious meniscus injury, he’s maintained consistent form in the Bundesliga under Niko Kovač, posting the following numbers for the 2025/26 season:

270 minutes played

71.4% aerial duels won

12 duels won

14 recoveries

4 interceptions

These stats underscore his reliability and dominance at the back — making him a key player Dortmund won’t easily part with.

How much would Dortmund demand?

BILD makes it clear that Dortmund have “ruled out” a January sale, but history shows they are willing to sell if their valuation is met.

Liverpool were reportedly ready to offer around £50 million for Schlotterbeck last summer. Yet, with his contract running until 2027 and an expected mid-season premium, any realistic bid would likely need to exceed that figure.