Niko Schlotterbeck, getty images February 11, 2026, 2:31 p.m

Real Madrid are actively working on the potential signing of Borussia Dortmund centre-back Nico Schlotterback. The 26-year-old footballer is a priority target to strengthen the defensive line of the Spanish giants. Schlotterbeck himself positively assesses the possibility of a transfer, and the expected amount of the transfer is from 40 to 50 million euros. Borussia, in turn, offer the defender a contract until 2027 with an annual salary of up to 14 million euros, but the player is only considering options at top clubs with the prospect of winning titles.

Negotiations between the clubs are ongoing and a final decision on Schlotterback’s future is expected during the international break in March, before the player joins the national team. Madrid plans to complete transfers after appointing a head coach for next season. An important factor for Real is that the new defender must be left-footed, like Schlotterback, and meet the club’s high standards in terms of discipline and style of play.

Nico Schlotterback has emerged as the leader of Borussia Dortmund thanks to his professionalism, fitness and the influence of senior teammates such as Mats Hummels. He went from loan at Union Berlin to vice-captain at Borussia, gaining experience and authority in the team.

In total, the German defender played 150 matches for the Bees: 9 goals and 18 assists.