Nico Schlotterbeck’s release clause at Borussia Dortmund expired on Wednesday, according to Sport BILD, giving the Bundesliga club greater control over the central defender’s future. The 26-year-old signed a contract extension with Dortmund in April, a deal which included a buy-out clause valid only for a select group of clubs: Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, and Liverpool.
Schlotterbeck initially engaged in a standoff with Dortmund regarding a new contract before ultimately committing to the club until 2031. The inclusion of a release clause was a compromise during negotiations, allowing the player potential avenues for a move to specific top European clubs. With the clause now expired, Dortmund are in a position to dictate any potential transfer fee, currently estimated at €55million by Transfermarkt.com.
Despite regaining control over Schlotterbeck’s transfer situation, a departure from the Signal Iduna Park is not entirely off the cards, though it appears unlikely in the short term. The defender recently sustained a ligament injury while on international duty with Germany during their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, which will keep him sidelined for an unspecified period. This injury complicates any immediate transfer prospects.
Sky Germany confirmed on Thursday evening that both Schlotterbeck’s and teammate Serhou Guirassy’s release clauses have now expired. Guirassy has been a subject of continued interest from Turkish side Fenerbahçe, but Dortmund will now be able to set a price for the striker should Fenerbahçe, or any other club, make a formal offer. Schlotterbeck has become a key figure in Dortmund’s defense since joining from Freiburg in 2022, contributing to their consistent challenge for Bundesliga titles and Champions League qualification. Dortmund will be hoping to retain his services as they look to build on their recent successes.
