Credit: Imago

Oliver Walton

Tue 31 March 2026 15:00, UK

Follow us on Google Discover

Manchester United should make a move for Nico Schlotterbeck as Borussia Dortmund struggle to tie him down to a new contract.

Schlotterbeck’s future at Dortmund has been up in the air for several months as he approaches the final year of his current contract.

New reports in recent days have stated that the German international centre-back is close to agreeing a new deal until 2031, but he has come out and rubbished those claims.

Speaking to the media on Monday night, Schlotterbeck insisted that such reports are “not true” and “the situation has changed” regarding him signing fresh terms due to recent alterations to Dortmund’s board.

Man United’s transfer plans are set to focus on signing a new centre-back this summer, and they should now go for Schlotterbeck to add quality to their defensive ranks ahead of next season.

Nico Schlotterbeck would be a top signing for Man United

Schlotterbeck has proven himself to be one of the best centre-backs in the Bundesliga over the last few seasons at Dortmund.

He has made over 150 appearances for the German giants since a 2022 move from Freiburg, and is also a regular in the Germany national team, with starts in both of their friendlies during this international break.

The 26-year-old was also a key part of the Dortmund side that made the Champions League final in 2024, and has made 39 appearances in the competition over the last four seasons.

United require new defensive additions this summer to take the next step towards being a team that could potentially challenge for the Premier League title.

Football Insider recently revealed that United are accelerating contract talks with Harry Maguire, and while he has impressed this season, they surely can not rely on him as a regular starter for much longer.

The likes of Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt have quality, but seem to be injury-prone and could be improved upon with the signing of Schlotterbeck.

United have been tentatively linked with the Dortmund star as he approaches the final year of his deal, and should look to sign him for a cut-price fee following his surprising new comments.

Which other teams could be after Schlotterbeck this summer?

The Red Devils need to accelerate a move for Schlotterbeck due to the amount of sides that look set to be after him this summer.

Sources told Football Insider before the January window that Liverpool, Chelsea and Man City were interested in Schlotterbeck, and each of those sides may remain keen on a deal ahead of the summer.

Diario AS recently reported that Real Madrid had enquired about his availability, but were set to miss out due to new contract talks, yet they could also renew their interest after he pushed back against talk of a renewal being completed.

United clearly face a tough task in signing him this summer, hence why they need to speed up talks before the season ends to make sure they land Schlotterbeck before anyone else.