Liverpool and Manchester United are two of several clubs in the Premier League expected to strengthen at the back during the summer transfer window with the signing of a central defender or two.
Caught Offside has reported that the two English rivals are set to battle it out over the signing of Borussia Dortmund star Nico Schlotterbeck, who is open to a move to one of the clubs once the ongoing season ends.
Dortmund and the player had been in talks over a contract renewal, but the source has claimed that the player has paused all negotiations with his club, as he remains open to the proposition of moving to England.
Schlotterbeck’s contract at the Signal Iduna Park expires in June 2027, so he would be available for a discount this year. Transfermarkt values the centre back at £48 million, a price that might be enough to secure his services.
Liverpool likely to be favourites for Schlotterbeck
Between Liverpool and Manchester United, it is the Reds who are in a more serious need of a central defender considering that they have been extremely short of depth in the heart of their backline, whilst two of their key players have uncertain futures.
Ibrahima Konate has yet to renew his contract, which expires at the end of the ongoing campaign, whereas Virgil van Dijk will enter the final year of his deal at Anfield and might not be given another extension owing to his form.
Nico Schlotterbeck would prioritise a regular place at his next club and consequently, he may be lured by the opportunity at Liverpool as opposed to United, who have decent players and sufficient depth in their back four.
The German international is a very good player on the ball, known for helping build up from the back with good effect, but his tackling and positioning are what especially stand out, making him a worthy successor for Van Dijk on Merseyside.
At 28, Schlotterbeck has a reasonable amount of experience under his belt and is also in the best years of his career, so all things point towards him being a good buy for Liverpool, who have every reason to believe they will trump Man United to his purchase.
