Borussia Dortmund centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck is no longer considered a primary target for Real Madrid following an injury sustained while on international duty with Germany, according to a report in Marca.
The 29-time German international suffered the injury during Germany’s 2-1 victory over Côte d’Ivoire last week, and is expected to be sidelined for several months. This setback has reportedly altered Real Madrid’s plans for strengthening their central defence during the summer transfer window.
Marca reports that Real Madrid coach José Mourinho now prioritizes Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni as his preferred option to reinforce the backline. Bastoni is currently valued at approximately €70 million, significantly higher than Schlotterbeck’s valuation.
Despite slipping down the list of priorities, a move to the Spanish capital has not been entirely dismissed for Schlotterbeck. The German defender possesses a release clause of €50 million, which is applicable to a select number of clubs, including Real Madrid, making him a potentially more affordable option than Bastoni.
Schlotterbeck has been a key figure for Borussia Dortmund since joining the club from Freiburg in 2022, establishing himself as a regular starter and earning international recognition with Germany. His injury comes at an inopportune moment, both for Dortmund’s Bundesliga campaign and his own prospects of a high-profile transfer.
Real Madrid are expected to be active in the transfer market this summer as they look to refresh their squad. The club has been linked with several central defenders, and the pursuit of Bastoni signals a willingness to invest significantly in a top-quality player. Schlotterbeck’s situation highlights the unpredictable nature of the transfer market and how injuries can quickly change a club’s priorities. The competition for Champions League qualification in La Liga will likely see Madrid bolster their squad in the off-season.
