Real Madrid has started focusing on German defender Nico Schlotterbeck to strengthen the defense line, after the club decided to move away from signing a Liverpool player, according to the website "Fichajes".

This comes amid uncertainty about Schlotterbeck's future with Borussia Dortmund, as talks to renew his contract, which runs until 2027, have not succeeded despite significant offers from the German club including a salary increase and granting him the captain's armband, which the player refused.

Real Madrid considers Schlotterbeck an urgent and long-term solution for the defense line, due to his ability to build play from the back, his strength in one-on-one duels, his high tactical reading, as well as his flexibility to adapt to various formations. The Spanish club's interest comes amid injuries, competitive pressure, and a lack of a natural left-back, which pushed the management to rule out the option of Ibrahima Konaté and focus on Schlotterbeck.

Schlotterbeck is 25 years old and possesses a mix of youth and competitive maturity, making him suitable for Real Madrid's long-term project. This aligns with the club's strategy to renew the generation and maintain dominance in La Liga and Europe, with his market value expected to rise to around 70 million euros.

The German club is closely monitoring his situation, while top European clubs watch his every move, as his market value could increase significantly if he delivers a strong season. Signing Schlotterbeck represents an opportunity to strengthen the defense, provide balance in the backline, open additional tactical options, and bring high-level experience in big matches from day one.

With the winter transfer window approaching, Nico Schlotterbeck's name is expected to remain a focal point of Real Madrid's interest, in a move that could form a key part of rebuilding the team's defensive core.