Liverpool transfer news: Red alert as Real Madrid 'take advantage' after Nico Schlotterbeck U-turn

Real Madrid have reportedly taken the lead in the race to sign Nico Schlotterbeck from Borussia Dortmund.

The 26-year-old has been enjoying a stellar campaign for Dortmund, and his impressive performances have attracted interest from several top European clubs, including Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United.

The German centre-back has started 21 Bundesliga matches this season, registering four goals and one assist, although his future at the club remains the subject of ongoing speculation.

Schlotterbeck is under contract at the Signal Iduna Park until 2027, and while reports previously suggested he was close to signing a new deal, uncertainty now surrounds those negotiations.

The former SC Freiburg defender has confirmed that talks are not currently at an advanced stage, keeping his potential suitors on high alert.

Nico Schlotterbeck contract situation: The dramatic U-turn

Only a few days ago, it appeared that Schlotterbeck would commit his future to Dortmund, with contract talks progressing positively.

Interested clubs had been led to believe that an agreement was imminent, with personal terms between the player and Dortmund reportedly close to being finalised.

However, in a surprising twist, Schlotterbeck admitted while on international duty that negotiations are far from complete, reopening the door to a potential high-profile move.

According to a report from TeamTalk, Dortmund have been left stunned by the defender’s comments and could now be forced to consider selling him.

Liverpool beware as Real Madrid take instant advantage

The Reds are in need of defensive reinforcements this summer and have been strongly linked with a move for Schlotterbeck, who is viewed as a natural replacement for Ibrahima Konate should he depart.

Konate is expected to leave on a free transfer, while concerns also surround Joe Gomez after another injury-hit campaign, and Virgil van Dijk is approaching the latter stages of his career.

The report claims that Real Madrid have moved swiftly following Schlotterbeck’s contract U-turn and have re-engaged in talks over a potential move to the Santiago Bernabeu.

While Liverpool’s transfer plans will depend largely on their final league position, they are still expected to undergo another rebuild, and Schlotterbeck would represent a major addition to their defence.