Liverpool ‘open talks’ to sign Bundesliga star – Report

Liverpool Explore Nico Schlotterbeck Deal as Guehi Pursuit Stalls

New Centre-Back Options Emerge

TEAMtalk report that “Liverpool have held initial and ‘positive’ talks over the signing of a Borussia Dortmund star in a potential clue a second deal is NOT happening.” That star is 25 year old Nico Schlotterbeck, a left-footed Germany international who has been named in three of the last four Bundesliga Teams of the Season and collected 22 caps over the past four years.

Liverpool’s summer transfer window was lauded as near flawless. The arrivals of Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak both smashed the British transfer record, significantly strengthening the spine of Arne Slot’s side. The only frustration was the failure to complete a deal for Marc Guehi on deadline day.

Giovanni Leoni’s ACL injury has only sharpened focus on that position. Guehi remains admired, and with his Crystal Palace contract expiring next summer, Liverpool still hope to secure him on a free. However, TEAMtalk note that Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Real Madrid have all joined the chase, with Bayern already opening talks with his camp.

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Schlotterbeck Talks Suggest Strategic Shift

Liverpool are not waiting passively. As TEAMtalk outline, they have also shown interest in Bayern’s Dayot Upamecano while opening early dialogue with Schlotterbeck’s representatives regarding a 2026 move. Those talks are described as “positive”, signalling realistic pursuit rather than speculative scouting.

This approach contrasts sharply with how the club handled the Isak saga. TEAMtalk recall Fabrizio Romano’s claim that Liverpool “resisted the temptation to open talks with alternative strikers,” believing Isak was the perfect fit. Had that deal collapsed, the club would not have signed anybody, already having Hugo Ekitike as backup.

With Guehi, Liverpool are behaving differently. TEAMtalk state that “in Guehi’s case, Liverpool are already making noise around both Upamecano and now Schlotterbeck.” The suggestion is clear. Liverpool want Guehi, but they are unwilling to wait if his camp entertains rival offers.

Photo IMAGO

Centre-Back Strategy Taking Shape

TEAMtalk clarify that “it’s important to stress Guehi remains Liverpool’s favoured option at centre-back.” However, if Ibrahima Konate departs when his contract expires, two central defenders may be required. Slot and the recruitment team appear to be preparing for that possibility. Schlotterbeck offers something unique: a ball-playing left-footer comfortable in possession and dominant in aerial duels.

While interest is still at an exploratory stage, the tone of TEAMtalk’s reporting indicates genuine intent rather than curiosity. Liverpool’s hierarchy may be subtly signalling to Guehi’s camp that hesitancy will not be tolerated.

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For Liverpool, this feels like smart positioning rather than panic. Guehi is still the ideal option for many supporters. Premier League proven, mature beyond his years and tactically adaptable. However, Liverpool have been burnt before when waiting on players already entertaining interest from bigger spenders. Schalke, Fulham, and now Guehi’s camp have all shown how drawn-out sagas can leave the club exposed.

Schlotterbeck, meanwhile, is far from a downgrade. His performances for Borussia Dortmund suggest he could excel in a higher defensive line, and his left-footed profile finally brings balance to a unit historically dominated by right-sided options. Some fans will rightly ask whether Liverpool should simply sign both. With Konate’s contract unresolved, and with Leoni’s injury casting uncertainty over long-term depth, it may not be unreasonable.

The encouraging aspect is that the club are being proactive. No more waiting for the perfect storm. If Guehi hesitates, Liverpool will move.