Manchester United Confirm Interest in Borussia Dortmund's Nico Schlotterbeck
Manchester United have registered their interest in signing Borussia Dortmund and Germany defender Nico Schlotterbeck, according to Sky Sport Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg. The 26-year-old centre-back, who is also a target for Liverpool and Real Madrid, could be available for a fee between €30 million and €35 million (£26-31m) this summer if he does not sign a contract extension with the Bundesliga club.
Plettenberg confirmed the club's stance, stating, "I can confirm that Man Utd are interested in Nico Schlotterbeck. If he doesn’t renew his contract, he’ll be available in the summer for €30m-35m." This potential move comes as United prepare for a significant squad rebuild, with central defence identified as a key area for reinforcement despite Harry Maguire being close to a new deal. Persistent injury concerns surrounding first-choice pairing Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt have prompted the club to seek greater depth and quality in the position.
Schlotterbeck has established himself as one of the standout defenders in Germany this season, renowned for his composed ball-playing ability. His performances have been integral for Dortmund, averaging 63 passes per game with an 88% completion rate and winning 64% of his duels. His current contract situation remains unresolved, with the player himself recently denying reports that a renewal had been agreed, placing several elite clubs on alert.
Securing his signature, however, will involve a significant battle. Real Madrid are already reported to have held talks, while Liverpool view him as a prime candidate to replace Ibrahima Konate. United may hold a crucial advantage in the race if they secure Champions League qualification, a prospect that looks increasingly likely for Erik ten Hag's side but less certain for Liverpool. Dortmund would ideally spark a bidding war between the suitors, which could drive his price closer to £45 million.
In a separate development, United have also made an informal enquiry for Arsenal left-back Myles Lewis-Skelly, as reported by transfer insider Ben Jacobs. The 19-year-old England international, who broke through last season but has found minutes limited this term, is open to exploring a move for more playing time. Any deal would be complex and expensive, with Jacobs noting suitors would have to "overpay" for a player contracted until 2030.
The pursuit of defensive reinforcements underscores a broader strategic shift at Old Trafford ahead of the summer window. With Tyrell Malacia expected to depart and Luke Shaw requiring robust competition, left-back is another priority. The club's scouts have monitored several alternatives, including Benfica's Samuel Dahl, Fulham's Antonee Robinson, and RB Leipzig's David Raum.
These potential moves signal United's intent to build a more resilient and technically proficient defensive unit. Successfully landing a player of Schlotterbeck's calibre, at the quoted fee, would represent a significant coup in a competitive market and provide a long-term pillar for the backline. The coming weeks will be critical as the club's Champions League fate is sealed and formal negotiations potentially begin.
