Real Madrid's Top Target Faces Make-or-Break Transfer Deadline as Club Enters Bold New Chapter
Real Madrid have reportedly set a deadline for Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck, with backing from his current club, requiring him to make a decision about joining the Spanish giants by the March international window.
The German center-back features prominently on Real Madrid's list of defensive targets for the upcoming summer transfer period. The club seeks an experienced, combative central defender to strengthen what has become an unreliable defensive unit in recent campaigns.
Following the unavailability of Jérémy Jacquet, Marc Guéhi and Dayot Upamecano, the 15-time European champions have reportedly focused their efforts entirely on Schlotterbeck. Per SPORT BILD, Madrid have established a March cutoff date for the German international to decide whether his future remains with BVB or if he's willing to wear the famous white jersey from 2026–27 onwards.
Sources suggest both Dortmund and Real Madrid have mutually "accepted" this timeline, with negotiations between the clubs described as "cordial and productive."
Real Madrid's Future Relies on the Summer Transfer Window
Real Madrid's Future Relies on the Summer Transfer Window
Madrid's struggles in midfield and defense have been evident throughout the past 18 months. Despite acquiring Dean Huijsen, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Álvaro Carreras during the previous summer window to address defensive concerns, injury problems and erratic displays have highlighted the Spanish powerhouse's need for fresh talent in the upcoming transfer period.
This is where Schlotterbeck becomes relevant. The 26-year-old defender, tied to Dortmund through June 2027, matches the criteria of a smart, robust center-back who could seamlessly complement Éder Militão or Dean Huijsen. His comfort in possession and ability to launch attacks from deep defensive positions add further value.
While he may not carry the same reputation as Guéhi or possess Jacquet's potential and youthful advantage, Schlotterbeck represents a significant upgrade over the declining David Alaba or makeshift center-back Aurélien Tchouaméni.
Missing out on Schlotterbeck—or another seasoned center-back—could leave Los Blancos lacking the necessary squad depth to pursue titles in domestic and European competitions. Recent seasons and the current 2025–26 campaign have demonstrated that Madrid's improvised defensive setup lacks the strength to secure trophies, while their talented attacking players cannot compensate for such fundamental defensive weaknesses.
How Schlotterbeck's Potential Arrival Impacts Fringe Players
How Schlotterbeck's Potential Arrival Impacts Fringe Players
If Schlotterbeck chooses to pursue a transfer to the Spanish capital, the German's arrival would likely force at least one current player to depart. Madrid reportedly have no plans to extend Alaba's deal and are preparing for the Austrian's departure when his contract expires.
Antonio Rüdiger also enters the final months of his Madrid contract. The 32-year-old's situation remains unresolved, but the potential addition of one or two defensive signings this summer might facilitate his departure.
Uncertainty also clouds Dani Carvajal's Bernabéu future. The six-time Champions League champion faces free agency this summer, and his current limited playing time suggests his Madrid career may be concluding, particularly if he encounters additional fitness issues as the season continues.
These veteran departures would represent a continuation of the transformation occurring throughout the Spanish capital, emphasizing future prospects over legendary club figures.