Nico Schlotterbeck has declined to comment on speculation linking him with a move to Bayern Munich, as Liverpool reportedly monitor the Borussia Dortmund defender's situation. The Germany international, who has been tipped as a potential target for both clubs, refused to be drawn when asked about a switch to the Bundesliga leaders.
Schlotterbeck, whose Dortmund contract runs until 2027, admitted he was close to joining Bayern in the past when Julian Nagelsmann was in charge. "Yes, apparently not close enough," he told reporters. The centre-back praised Nagelsmann, adding: "Working with him is easy. He tells me what he wants, and I try to implement it."
The potential transfer battle echoes the summer pursuit of Florian Wirtz, which Liverpool won with a nine-figure bid. Bayern's former CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge admitted the Wirtz deal still hurts, while Uli Hoeness conceded they could not match Liverpool's spending power. Schlotterbeck would command a lower fee, but Bayern face competition from the Premier League side.
Schlotterbeck recently returned from a meniscus tear, playing 45 minutes for Germany in their World Cup qualifier against Luxembourg. His compatriot Wirtz played the full 90 minutes in that match. Both players are key for the national team as they build towards next year's tournament.
