Bayern Munich Intensifies Interest in Nico Schlotterbeck
As of December 16, 2025, Bayern Munich is reportedly making significant strides in their pursuit of Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck, who is 26 years old and has become a key target to strengthen their defensive lineup.
According to a report from Bild, Bayern sees Schlotterbeck as a tactical alternative to Dayot Upamecano. The latter’s contract status remains ambiguous as he draws significant attention from clubs like Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.
This uncertainty over Upamecano’s future has raised alarm among Bayern’s management. Recent negotiations for a contract extension have stalled, with reports indicating that the French player’s salary expectations have yet to be satisfied.
Informal approaches from both Real Madrid and PSG suggest they could make a serious offer if Upamecano becomes available during the summer transfer window.
Bayern Munich Pursues Schlotterbeck
In response to Upamecano’s situation, Bayern has shifted their focus to potential defensive reinforcements, positioning Schlotterbeck at the top of their list. Should Bayern formalize their interest, Dortmund will face a challenging decision. Reports say Bayern is prepared to offer around €50 million, a sum that may be hard for Dortmund to overlook, given their financial conditions in contrast to their competitors.
Bayern has a rich history of acquiring key players from Dortmund, having signed stars like Mats Hummels, Mario Götze, and Robert Lewandowski in previous seasons, and they could be looking to add Schlotterbeck to that roster.
Liverpool and Barcelona Also Show Interest
Both Liverpool and Barcelona have been keeping a close eye on Schlotterbeck’s development over the past year. Liverpool’s scouting team highly values his ball-playing capabilities, believing he would fit perfectly into manager Arne Slot’s tactical framework. Similarly, Barcelona sees Schlotterbeck as a potential long-term replacement for Ronald Araújo, should he choose to leave.
Despite the interest from other clubs, Bayern’s robust financial position and familiarity with the Bundesliga may provide them with a significant edge in this competitive chase.
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