LIVERPOOL, UK – Following the frustration of losing long-term target Marc Guéhi to Manchester City, Liverpool have reportedly accelerated their search for defensive reinforcements. According to TEAMtalk, the Reds are now closely monitoring Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck as their primary alternative to lead the backline.
The move comes as a response to the news that Guéhi underwent a medical at the Etihad Stadium this Sunday (18), forcing Liverpool to look elsewhere. Schlotterbeck, whose contract with Dortmund expires in June 2027, is viewed as a high-priority target who could be available for a reduced fee as he enters the final year of his deal this summer.
The Schlotterbeck Profile: A Modern Defender
At 26, the German international is considered one of the most complete center-backs in the Bundesliga. His profile is a perfect match for the “high-line” system used at Anfield:
- Tactical Intelligence: Elite game-reading and anticipation skills.
- Physical Presence: Dominant in aerial duels and physical “close combat.”
- Ball Distribution: Known for his ability to break lines with vertical passes, acting as a deep-lying playmaker.
With Real Madrid reportedly cooling their interest in the German star, according to Marca, the path is now clear for Liverpool to open negotiations following the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup.
Bastoni: The “Dream” Alternative
Schlotterbeck isn’t the only world-class name on the radar. Liverpool is also keeping a watchful eye on Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni. The Italian international is a long-standing favorite of the recruitment team, though any deal would be “extremely complex” due to Inter’s high valuation and interest from Barcelona.
Pressure on the Board
The failure to secure Guéhi has put immense pressure on the Liverpool hierarchy. With Arne Slot’s future uncertain and the defense looking vulnerable in recent weeks, the signing of a top-tier center-back like Schlotterbeck or Bastoni is now seen as non-negotiable for the club’s 2026/27 project.
Thiago Nuno is a football editor and analyst covering European leagues, match statistics, and transfer market trends.
