Liverpool manager Arne Slot has been handed a significant boost in the pursuit of defensive reinforcements, with a key rival dropping out of the race for Borussia Dortmund's Nico Schlotterbeck.
Bayern Munich withdraw from Schlotterbeck pursuit
According to reports from Germany, Bayern Munich are no longer expected to target the 26-year-old centre-back. This development comes as a direct result of Bayern agreeing a deal to extend defender Dayot Upamecano's stay at the Allianz Arena.
Bayern's decision removes a major competitor for Liverpool, who are actively seeking a left-footed central defender. Talks between Upamecano and the Bundesliga champions have been ongoing, and it is now believed the 27-year-old French international is on the verge of signing a new contract before the January transfer window closes.
Liverpool's defensive search intensifies
The Reds' need for a new defender is pressing. The club infamously came close to signing Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi on transfer deadline day in September 2025, agreeing a fee of £35 million before the deal collapsed at the eleventh hour.
With Ibrahima Konate's contract set to expire in June 2026 and Guehi, 25, also out of contract this summer, Liverpool are assessing multiple options. The situation has become more urgent with Manchester City now considering a January move for Guehi to address their own defensive injury crisis.
Schlotterbeck, whose Dortmund contract enters its final 18 months in 2026, presents an attractive alternative. His age, profile, and left-footedness make him a prime target for several top European clubs, including Barcelona and Real Madrid.
Dortmund fight to keep their star
Borussia Dortmund are not giving up hope of retaining Schlotterbeck. The club's managing director for sport, Lars Ricken, confirmed last month that discussions over a long-term contract extension are ongoing.
"We're discussing a long-term contract. We're in good dialogue, but of course he wants to make this decision carefully," Ricken told DAZN. "We know what he needs. He also knows what he has with this club."
Dortmund are reportedly preparing a substantial offer in a final attempt to secure Schlotterbeck's future, highlighting his importance to the team. However, with no agreement reached and top clubs circling, a sale in the 2026 transfer window remains a distinct possibility.
For Liverpool and Arne Slot, Bayern Munich's withdrawal from the race is a timely and advantageous twist in a complex transfer saga, offering a clearer path to secure a top-tier defensive target.
