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Real Madrid transfer target Nico Schlotterbeck has penned a contract extension at Borussia Dortmund. Nevertheless, a special exit clause means a summer departure remains a possibility.
The 25-year-old had long been identified as a future Madrid prospect, with his situation drawing particular attention due to his contractual circumstances.
Prior to renewing, the German international had just over a year remaining on his contract and could have freely negotiated with overseas clubs as early as next January.
Beyond being an exceptionally gifted center back, Schlotterbeck aligned perfectly with Madrid's transfer philosophy of acquiring players without paying a club-to-club fee—a strategy they have employed in recent signings such as Trent Alexander-Arnold, Kylian Mbappé, Antonio Rüdiger and others.
Schlotterbeck's New Deal Contains Madrid Get-Out Option
Nico Schlotterbeck extends his contract! 💪
BVB have reached an agreement with Nico Schlotterbeck on a contract extension, keeping him at the club until 2031. ✍️ pic.twitter.com/TADMIi2oUY
However, the prospect of signing Schlotterbeck on a free transfer has now vanished, with the former Freiburg man committing to a new contract at Dortmund through 2031.
As part of the club's official statement on Friday, Schlotterbeck commented: "I'm absolutely thrilled to have renewed my contract with BVB. I deliberately took my time with the decision because it carries real significance for me. We had constructive conversations throughout, but it wasn't a process wrapped up in just a week or two.
"The club's leadership presented me with a compelling plan, and I know what this club means to me. My ambition is to win trophies together with Borussia Dortmund."
The renewal may complicate Madrid's recruitment plans, but it does not entirely eliminate the possibility of a summer move for Schlotterbeck.
According to Kicker, the new agreement—which includes a significant wage increase for the defender—also contains a release clause applicable to a select group of clubs. While Madrid are not explicitly named in the report, they are widely expected to be among those covered.
The clause, designed to allow the player to retain control over his career trajectory, is reportedly set at between $58 and $70 million (€50 and €60 million)—a sum unlikely to deter clubs seeking a defender of Schlotterbeck's quality.
Konaté Blow for Real Madrid
Elsewhere, another defender prominently linked with Real Madrid is also edging closer to signing an extension.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool's Ibrahima Konaté is nearing a new agreement at Anfield.
The French international had previously held talks with Madrid—though those are reported to have stalled in November—and is now "progressing" in discussions with Liverpool. Without a fresh deal, he would be available as a free agent this summer.
Regardless of the situations surrounding Konaté and Schlotterbeck, Madrid are expected to pursue a new center back in the summer transfer window.
Rüdiger and Éder Militão's injury concerns continue to demand careful handling, while Dean Huijsen has shown promise but is still developing. David Alaba's contract expires this summer, and out-of-favour Raúl Asencio could be considered expendable.