Bayern Munich are reportedly preparing to accelerate their pursuit of Borussia Dortmund centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck, with the 26-year-old emerging as a top candidate to add to their defence.
According to Bild, Bayern see Schlotterbeck as a strategic replacement for Dayot Upamecano, but Upamecano’s contract situation remains unresolved with strong interest from Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.
The situation surrounding Upamecano is causing growing concern within Bayern’s hierarchy.
Negotiations over a contract extension have stalled in recent months, with reports claiming the French defender’s wage demands have yet to be met.
Both Real Madrid and PSG are thought to have made unofficial approaches, suggesting a move could be made if the player becomes available in the summer.
Bayern Munich intensifies pursuit of Schlotterbeck
Given this uncertainty, Bayern have begun to consider defensive reinforcements, with Schlotterbeck currently at the top of their list of candidates.
If Bayern officially shows interest, Dortmund could face a difficult decision. Bayern are said to be willing to offer around 50 million euros, a sum that may be difficult for BVB to turn down given their financial limitations compared to their title rivals.
Bayern have a long history of signing key players from Dortmund, including Mats Hummels, Mario Götze and Robert Lewandowski, and Schlotterbeck could be added to that list.
Liverpool and Barcelona are also interested.
Bayern are not the only team to praise Schlotterbeck. Liverpool and Barcelona have been closely monitoring his development over the past year.
Liverpool’s scout team has praised Schlotterbeck’s ball-playing abilities and sees him as an ideal fit in Arne Slott’s system, while Barcelona see him as a long-term replacement for Ronald Araujo if the Uruguayan leaves.
Nevertheless, Bayern’s financial strength and national profile give them a clear advantage.
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