Nico Schlotterbeck is fast-becoming one of the most sought-after players in the transfer market, with many expecting him to leave Borussia Dortmund at the end of the season.
Schlotterbeck has established himself as one of the best defenders in the Bundesliga and one of the best ball-playing centre-backs in Europe.
His consistent performances have not gone unnoticed, with Real Madrid and Barcelona both gunning for his services in 2026.
Real Madrid double down on Schlotterbeck
However, according to Diario AS, Barcelona are set to face stiff competition from Real Madrid in the race to sign Schlotterbeck.
That is because Los Blancos have now doubled down their efforts to sign the German international, who has emerged as a priority for the club.
After missing out on the likes of Dayot Upamecano and Marc Guehi, Real Madrid are keen on signing a strong left-footed centre-back, and Nico fits the bill.
The report adds that the German is expected to cost somewhere around €50 million. Although he would ideally cost higher, the fact that his contract expires in 2027 could aid Real Madrid.
Barcelona, for their part, are keen on signing Schlotterbeck as well. But the Catalans are prioritising the addition of a new centre-forward, rather than a new centre-back.
Keeping that in mind, Dortmund may only consider a move for the Dortmund star if he can join the club as a free agent in 2027. But that is unlikely to be the case.
Real Madrid, therefore, have emerged as a potential favourite in the race to sign the talented centre-back, with Los Blancos also looking to leverage their relationship with Borussia Dortmund.