FC Barcelona continues its efforts to strengthen its defense ahead of the upcoming season, and it seems that the green light has been given to sign German defender Nico Schlotterbeck, a Borussia Dortmund player, who is the preferred choice of coach Hans Flick to compensate for the absence of Iñigo Martínez.

The 26-year-old Schlotterbeck is determined not to renew his contract with Dortmund, which runs until 2027, while his chances of moving to rival clubs like Liverpool and Bayern Munich are diminishing. This gives Barcelona a serious opportunity to complete the deal starting next June. Flick has previously given Schlotterbeck a chance to play with the German national team, which increases the likelihood of a successful fit between both parties at the Catalan club.

Barcelona's technical staff sees great value in Schlotterbeck due to his defensive solidity, his ability to build play with his left foot, and his leadership qualities on the field. The club also believes that his current contract situation allows for completing the deal at a reasonable price. Although Dortmund is pressuring the player to renew his contract and is preparing to make a substantial financial offer, Schlotterbeck's desire to compete for titles could be the decisive factor.

Alongside Schlotterbeck, Barcelona is also considering signing Portuguese defender Gonzalo Inácio from Sporting Lisbon, whose contract also expires in 2027 and has not yet been renewed. The good relationship between the two clubs makes the deal possible if a suitable offer is made.