Schlotterbeck in ‘advanced talks’ to agree deal as Newcastle decision made
Newcastle look set to miss out on one of their key defensive targets this summer, with Nico Schlotterbeck now likely to remain at Borussia Dortmund, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that Schlotterbeck is in “advanced talks over a new deal” with Dortmund, who are keen to secure his long-term future.
The German defender is currently sidelined with an injury and is not expected to return to action until October, which has further complicated any potential move away from the Bundesliga side.
He had been linked with a switch to St James’ Park as part of Newcastle’s plans to bolster their defence, but the likelihood of a deal has now faded.
Schlotterbeck was also previously mentioned as a possible option for Liverpool, seen as a long-term successor to Virgil van Dijk, but with the Dutchman now having signed a new deal at Anfield, those links have quietened.
It now appears Newcastle will need to explore alternative options as they look to strengthen at centre-back ahead of next season.
| Newcastle’s next fixtures | Date |
| Brighton vs Newcastle | 4 May |
| Newcastle vs Chelsea | 11 May |
| Arsenal vs Newcastle | 18 May |
Newcastle unlikely to make move for Schlotterbeck amid race for Dean Huijsen
Newcastle already boast a strong core of centre-backs in Fabian Schar, Sven Botman and Dan Burn, but the club remain eager to add further depth and competition in the position.
Schlotterbeck has proven pivotal for Dortmund this season and has had a brilliant campaign, winning the Bundesliga player of the month for March.
With the German international under contract until the summer of 2027 and currently in talks over a new deal, a move to St James’ Park is looking increasingly unlikely.
Instead, the Magpies are expected to turn their attention to other targets—one being Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen.
Football Insider revealed Newcastle are interested in signing Huijsen, but they face stiff competition from Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal and even Real Madrid, all of whom are also monitoring his situation closely.
Newcastle eye Liam Delap as Ipswich future uncertain
With the current season reaching its climax and Champions League qualification still up for grabs, the Magpies are already making early moves in the transfer market.
Newcastle fans are urging the club to sign Liam Delap after reports claimed that they intend to use him alongside talisman Alexander Isak.
Football Insider revealed back in March that Newcastle are among a number of clubs actively pursuing a deal for Delap, with the forward expected to be available this summer through a £30 million relegation clause,
With Callum Wilson expected to depart, the club are likely to bring in another striker to reinforce Howe’s attacking options ahead of the new campaign.