Borussia Dortmund determined to keep hold of star defender Nico Schlotterbeck

Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund are determined to keep hold of their star centre-back, Nico Schlotterbeck, whose contract expires in June 2027, amid interest from Bayern Munich.

Dortmund are poised to renew the contract of the 25-year-old, who is seen as an important member of the squad now and for the future. Schlotterbeck’s leadership qualities make him an indispensable figure for the German club.

Contract talks have begun, with Dortmund issuing a final deadline for Schlotterbeck’s answer, as the player seems to be holding on to a potential “call” from Vincent Kompany’s side.

Schlotterbeck has become one of the most important players for Die Schwarzgelben, having emerged as not just one of the best defenders in Europe, but also as a real leader within the dressing room.

His contract expires in the summer of 2027, raising concerns at Signal Iduna Park over the German international’s future amid interest from Bayern Munich and Premier League side Liverpool.

Since arriving from Union Berlin in the summer of 2022, Schlotterbeck has established himself as one of the first names on the team sheet, making 131 appearances for Die Borussen already.

Nico Schlotterbeck linked with a move to Bayern Munich

His outstanding defensive performances have also seen him become one of the regulars in the German national team, capping 22 times for Die Mannschaft.

However, Dortmund chiefs are highly optimistic a deal can be struck to extend the “deadball specialists’ ” contract in the coming months.

“We’ve been in discussions for quite some time,” said Dortmund sporting director Sebastian Kehl at the end of last month.

“I can promise that we’re working on it. It’ll take a few more days. Not because he’s not convinced, but because he wants to find himself, wants to get into the rhythm and pursue big goals – which hopefully are with Borussia Dortmund. I’m still very optimistic.”

According to reports, Dortmund are also ready to more than triple Schlotterbeck’s wages in an attempt to pin him down in the long term. He currently earns around €2.5 million per year.

The new contract, which will see Schlotterbeck remain at the Signal Iduna until 2030, will see him pocket a fixed salary worth €8 million annually, which could rise to €9 million with bonuses and add-ons.

According to a report from BILD, it was made clear to Schlotterbeck during recent contract talks that his role at Dortmund extends beyond his performances on the pitch; he is expected to grow into a leader and a role model for the club -promoting him from his current role as one of the vice-captains.

Meanwhile, Liverpool are reportedly planning a January transfer for a centre-back and are believed to have already begun initial discussions. After their deadline-day pursuit of Marc Guehi fell through, the young defender, Giovanni Leoni, suffered an ACL injury.

Bayern are also struggling to finalise a contract renewal for Dayot Upamecano, as the French defender demands substantial wages and bonuses amid recent links to Real Madrid. The club is exploring alternatives should negotiations fail for the 26-year-old.