Sport

The Bernabéu’s Defensive Dilemma: Schlotterbeck vs. Cuti Romero

18.02.2026
Editor edt

Real Madrid’s sports management has a clear objective for the Summer 2026 window: land a world-class center-back. While several names have been floated, the race has narrowed down to a “one or the other” showdown between Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck and Tottenham’s Cristian “Cuti” Romero.

Both players offer elite quality, but their situations couldn’t be more different. Here is the state of play as of mid-February 2026.

Nico Schlotterbeck: The Tactical Favorite

Schlotterbeck, 26, is currently the frontrunner for the role. Real Madrid is reportedly prioritizing a left-footed defender to provide balance to a backline that may see the departures of Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba this summer.

  • The Deadline: Real Madrid has reportedly given Schlotterbeck until the March international break to decide his future.

  • The Contract Situation: While his deal with Dortmund runs until 2027, he has stalled on renewal talks. If he doesn’t sign by summer, Dortmund may be forced to sell to avoid losing him for a lower fee in 2027.

  • The Price Tag: Estimated at €45m – €50m, making him a “market opportunity” compared to Premier League prices.

  • The Profile: Elite ball-playing ability, strength in the air, and a strong desire to wear the white shirt.

Cuti Romero: The Character Pick

If Madrid wants “blood and thunder,” the 27-year-old World Cup winner is the man. Romero is seen as the perfect injection of aggression and leadership for a defense that has occasionally looked passive this season.

  • The Tottenham Hurdle: Romero signed a new contract in August 2025 that keeps him in London until 2029. Dealing with Spurs (and the post-Daniel Levy leadership) remains notoriously difficult.

  • The Price Tag: Tottenham values their captain at a staggering €100m (£87m). While Florentino Pérez is reportedly a fan of Romero’s “combustible” style, the price may be a bridge too far.

  • The Player’s Stance: Romero has been uncharacteristically vocal recently, publicly criticizing Tottenham’s transfer strategy following an injury crisis. Some see this as “Agent Romero” laying the groundwork for an exit.