Liverpool could be about to test Borussia Dortmund’s resolve with a move for Nico Schlotterbeck, as contract talks between the defender and the German club have reportedly hit a wall.
The 25-year-old center-back has been offered a new long-term deal by Dortmund, but reports in Germany suggest discussions have stalled over salary expectations.
That hesitation could open the door for Liverpool — especially as Arne Slot looks to strengthen his backline ahead of a demanding second half of the season.
With Ibrahima Konate facing uncertainty over his contract and Giovanni Leoni sidelined, the Reds are keeping a close watch on potential reinforcements.
According to BILD, Schlotterbeck is open to a Premier League move, and Liverpool are seen as one of the few clubs that could meet both Dortmund’s valuation and the player’s ambitions.
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A defensive domino waiting to fall?
German journalist Christian Falk revealed that Dortmund’s offer runs until 2030, worth around €8 million per year — but Schlotterbeck isn’t satisfied.
“He already has a contract offer until the summer of 2030 on the table from Dortmund. However, if he accepts, he would just earn about €8m gross – and he’s not satisfied with this. That’s also because his teammate, Niklas Süle, is earning significantly more and he’s often on the bench,” Falk explained.
That wage gap could become the spark that lights up Liverpool’s transfer plans. With Van Dijk now 34 next summer, the Reds are reportedly viewing Schlotterbeck as his natural heir — a strong, composed left-footed defender who fits the club’s high defensive line and possession-based system.
Schlotterbeck’s stats back that up. He has won over 70% of his aerial duels and made 14 recoveries in just 270 Bundesliga minutes this season. Those numbers scream “Liverpool defender” — calm under pressure, commanding in the air, and sharp in positioning.
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The transfer twist
Dortmund, for their part, insist they won’t sell mid-season. But as football fans know, “won’t sell” often turns into “for the right price.” Liverpool were reportedly willing to pay £50 million for the player last summer.
If contract talks continue to drag, Dortmund may decide cashing in early is the smarter play.
Sources close to the club hint that initial contact between Liverpool and Dortmund is expected soon. Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are also said to be watching from the sidelines — but Liverpool might be ready to make the first move.
Because when a Van Dijk-style opportunity knocks, you don’t just stand there — you open the door.