Real Madrid make long-awaited decision; Liverpool forced to act

Real Madrid have finally made their move for Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck, a decision that leaves Liverpool scrambling to reassess their centre-back plans for the summer window.

Liverpool had earmarked the Germany international as a prime target, hoping to bring him back to Anfield at the end of 2025, and sources maintain he remains on the club’s shortlist ahead of the upcoming transfer period. Schlotterbeck’s contract is set to expire in 2027, placing Dortmund under pressure to cash in before the final 12 months of his deal begin to tick down.

With Madrid now poised to secure Schlotterbeck’s signature, Liverpool must pivot quickly. Attention could turn in-house: Ibrahima Konate is out of contract this summer and, until now, had been expected to attract heavy interest from Europe’s elite. Yet the market is shifting beneath his feet. Real Madrid’s stance appears to have cooled, Bayern Munich have tied Dayot Upamecano to fresh terms, and Manchester City’s capture of Marc Guehi has removed another potential suitor from the equation.

Konate’s dwindling external options may yet encourage Liverpool to open fresh talks over an extension, but the club’s recruitment staff are already compiling alternative centre-back profiles as the window edges closer.

For Dortmund, Madrid’s interest represents a welcome exit strategy; for Liverpool, it is a reminder that timing, not just talent, dictates the modern transfer market.