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Speculation is mounting that Jose Mourinho might be plotting to bring Nico Schlotterbeck to Real Madrid, with new reports suggesting Borussia Dortmund (BVB) could find themselves in a difficult position.

It now seems increasingly possible that Real Madrid, one of the clubs covered by Schlotterbeck’s release clause, may target the BVB defender in the upcoming summer transfer window.

As per a report by Bild, Real Madrid’s newly appointed manager Jose Mourinho is a “big admirer of Schlotterbeck”. The German international, meanwhile, has “frequently told those close to him” that joining Real Madrid and playing at the Santiago Bernabéu has always been an ambition.

This development could create a challenging situation for Borussia Dortmund. Although the 26-year-old defender extended his contract until 2031 earlier this year after long negotiations, he also secured a release clause worth between €50 million and €60 million. The clause reportedly applies to three clubs, with Real Madrid and Liverpool FC named among them — both of whom are actively searching for new central defenders this summer.

Liverpool’s need to strengthen their backline arises from the club’s inability to reach a new agreement with Ibrahima Konate, who is now set to join Real Madrid on a free transfer. Real president Florentino Perez had already hinted at the move prior to his recent re-election.

Real Madrid preparing a major defensive overhaul

Real Madrid’s plans go beyond just Konate. Their central defence has been a persistent concern. Dean Huijsen, who joined from AFC Bournemouth for €63 million last summer, experienced an inconsistent debut campaign and was excluded from Spain’s World Cup squad.

Veteran defender David Alaba is expected to leave the club, while Bild reports that promising young talent Raul Asencio could also depart. Regular starter Eder Militao suffered another thigh injury just before the World Cup, adding to two previous ACL tears and a muscle injury. Surgery at the end of April ruled him out of the tournament, and he is not expected to return before late autumn.

Antonio Rüdiger is set to extend his contract until 2027, but the 33-year-old continues to struggle with recurring muscle and knee issues.

Real Madrid appears ready to spend heavily to equip Mourinho with the reinforcements he wants, while Liverpool urgently seeks a new centre-back to stabilise their defence.

Even with Konate’s signing, Real Madrid’s pursuit of Schlotterbeck continues, as the release clause fits comfortably within the club’s financial plan. During his re-election campaign, president Perez pledged to make funds available to strengthen Mourinho’s squad — one that went trophyless last season.

Alongside a marquee signing exceeding €100 million, several additional players are expected to arrive, with Schlotterbeck seen as a prime target. According to the report, Real Madrid intends to formally approach the defender’s representatives shortly, as the clause will expire around the time of the World Cup final on 19 July.

Meanwhile, Liverpool are also keeping close tabs on the situation, given their dwindling centre-back options following Konate’s departure.

Although Virgil van Dijk remains under contract until 2027, uncertainty surrounds the 34-year-old’s long-term future after difficult renewal talks in 2025. Apart from the captain, only Joe Gomez and Giovanni Leoni are available as natural centre-backs. Leoni, who joined from Parma in the summer of 2025 for €30 million, suffered a cruciate ligament injury in his first game and missed nearly the entire season.