Watch Out Liverpool’s Emergency Plan for Nico Schlotterbeck

Liverpool are planning to strengthen their defence amid injuries and uncertain futures. Giovanni Leoni is out for the season, Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez may leave, and Virgil van Dijk has one year left on his contract. Nico Schlotterbeck of Borussia Dortmund is linked as a top target, though Dortmund aim to keep him until 2027, making any transfer a potentially huge fee.

For the 2025/26 season, Liverpool are urgently planning to strengthen their defence, with Nico Schlotterbeck emerging as a key target. The Reds face several challenges at centre-back after Giovanni Leoni suffered a season-ending injury. Additionally, Ibrahima Konate’s contract will expire at the end of the season, Joe Gomez’s future remains uncertain, and Marc Guehi’s potential move collapsed due to last-minute issues with Crystal Palace. Liverpool also have to consider the future of Virgil van Dijk, who has just one year left on his contract, making it vital to plan for a long-term replacement.

Schlotterbeck, whose contract with Borussia Dortmund runs until 2027, has been linked with a move to Liverpool. Dortmund are reportedly implementing an emergency plan to retain him, hoping to secure a contract extension and strengthen their negotiating position by signaling they do not need to sell.

Despite Dortmund’s strategy, Liverpool are reportedly considering a January bid to sign Schlotterbeck ahead of other interested clubs, potentially paying a significant fee possibly exceeding what Van Dijk cost in 2018. Securing Schlotterbeck is seen as crucial for Liverpool’s defensive future, addressing immediate gaps while also planning for the eventual replacement of Van Dijk, ensuring long-term stability at the back.