Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck has reportedly told Florian Wirtz that he wants to join Liverpool. The news comes amid speculation that Ibrahima Konate is leaving Anfield.
Konate’s Contract Situation
Ibrahima Konate is reportedly set to leave Liverpool this summer as a free agent. This follows the collapse of talks regarding a new contract. Konate had publicly stated in April that he was close to signing a new deal with Liverpool and extending his stay at Anfield.
Schlotterbeck’s Anfield Dream
Nico Schlotterbeck is reportedly ready to join Liverpool after the 2026 World Cup finals this summer. He is seen as a potential replacement for Konate. Schlotterbeck recently signed a new contract with Borussia Dortmund. However, the contract includes a release clause that can be triggered by select clubs, including Liverpool.
Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg reported that Liverpool, alongside Real Madrid, are among the few clubs that can activate Schlotterbeck’s release clause this summer. The fee is reportedly around €50-60 million. The release clause is not valid for the entire summer transfer window. According to reports, it expires around the time of the World Cup final (19 July).
Space | ™ has reported that Schlotterbeck has informed Liverpool attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz of his dream to join him at Anfield during Germany camp.
The report on X stated that Schlotterbeck has instructed his agent, Björn Etzel, to begin positioning him for a potential move after the World Cup.
Release Clause Details
The report also states the renewal included a €52.5 million (£45 million) release clause restricted to only a very small circle of clubs. Liverpool are reportedly included among that exclusive group. The clause is reportedly already active and capable of being triggered during the current transfer window.
- Schlotterbeck has a €52.5 million release clause.
- The release clause is restricted to a small circle of clubs, including Liverpool.
- The clause is reportedly already active.
However, no formal move has yet been initiated by Liverpool.