Sport

Real Madrid Or Barcelona Who Leads Race for Schlotterbeck

21.02.2026
Editor edt

Real Madrid is reportedly closing in on a major victory over Barcelona in the transfer market.

According to recent reports from Diario AS and Bild (February 21, 2026), Nico Schlotterbeck has emerged as the primary defensive target for the “Los Blancos” summer revolution.

The “El Clasico” of Transfers

While Hansi Flick has long identified Schlotterbeck as his preferred option to lead the Barcelona backline, Real Madrid’s financial power and the player’s personal preference have shifted the momentum toward the capital.

  • The Valuation: Borussia Dortmund has set an asking price of approximately €50M–€55M.

  • The Contract: With his current deal expiring in June 2027, Schlotterbeck has reportedly hesitated to sign a renewal, putting Dortmund in a position where they must sell this summer to maximize profit.

  • The Preference: Insiders suggest the 26-year-old German international has already informed his inner circle that Real Madrid is his dream destination, making a move to the Bernabéu more a matter of “when” than “if.”

Why Real Madrid is Desperate for a Center-Back

The urgency in Madrid stems from a looming crisis in their defensive core.

  • David Alaba’s Exit: Reliable sources, including Fabrizio Romano, have confirmed that Real Madrid and David Alaba will part ways at the end of this season (June 2026). The club has decided not to offer the 33-year-old a new contract.

  • Antonio Rüdiger’s Future: Rüdiger’s contract also expires this summer. While he is open to staying, the club has not yet finalized an extension, and there is significant interest from the Saudi Pro League.

  • Tactical Need: Real Madrid is prioritizing a left-footed center-back with elite ball-playing abilities to provide balance—a profile Schlotterbeck fits perfectly.

Plan B: The “Cuti” Romero Alternative

While Schlotterbeck is the favorite due to his contract situation, Real Madrid is also keeping a close eye on Cristian “Cuti” Romero from Tottenham.

  • The Comparison: Romero offers more aggression and leadership but would cost significantly more (€80M+) and involve difficult negotiations with Spurs chairman Daniel Levy.

  • The Verdict: Schlotterbeck remains the more “attainable” and strategically sound choice for Florentino Pérez this summer.