Real Madrid Leads Schlotterbeck Chase

The tug-of-war over Nico Schlotterbeck is reaching a tipping point. As of February 22, 2026, reports from AS and Bild indicate that Real Madrid has moved into “pole position” for the 26-year-old Borussia Dortmund defender, while Barcelona has effectively bowed out of the race.

Real Madrid is doubling down on the German international as their primary defensive target for the 2026 summer window.

The Priority: After missing out on Dayot Upamecano (who renewed with Bayern) and Marc Guéhi (who joined Manchester City), Madrid views Schlotterbeck as the “guarantor” of their backline for the next decade.
The Valuation: His contract at Dortmund expires in June 2027, and because he has hesitated to sign an extension, his market price is currently estimated at €50M–€55M—a figure Madrid considers a “bargain” for a left-footed ball-playing center-back.
The Strategy: The strong relationship between Florentino Pérez and the BVB hierarchy (forged through the Jude Bellingham deal) is expected to facilitate smooth negotiations.

While Hansi Flick is a known admirer of his compatriot, Barcelona has pivotally shifted their strategy:

The Lewandowski Factor: With Robert Lewandowski turning 38 this August, the club’s sporting director, Deco, has decided to prioritize the search for a world-class center-forward (succession planning) over an expensive defensive battle.
Tactical Doubts: Reports from Catalan media suggest some internal scouts believe Schlotterbeck may lack the raw recovery speed required for Flick’s extreme high-line defense, leading them to monitor Alessandro Bastoni instead.

Schlotterbeck recently confirmed in post-match interviews that he has set a “personal deadline” before the summer to decide his future.

The Dortmund Stance: Sebastian Kehl is still trying to tempt him with a “leadership role” and a significant wage increase, but the allure of joining his national teammate Antonio Rüdiger (whose own future in Madrid remains undecided) is reportedly swaying the player.