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Liverpool FC seem to be laying the groundwork for what could be a transformative summer transfer window, with defensive reinforcements at the top of their priority list.

The Merseyside club, currently sitting comfortably at the summit of the Premier League, have identified a Bundesliga defensive stalwart.

Fabrizio Romano has already reported that the Reds have no less than three players on their shortlist ahead of the summer.

Likewise, Arne Slot has come and said the plan is to strengthen in the summer, saying to the BBC back in January:

“I know people sometimes question this because they haven’t seen us doing a lot in the transfer market in the summer and now in the winter as well.

There’s a reason for that – because we’re happy with the squad.”

“But I do know we’re definitely working on strengthening in the summer.”

And now BILD have reported that the Reds have identified Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck as an option to shadow Virgil Van Dijk with the skipper now 33-years-old

The 25-year-old German international has established himself as one of the Bundesliga’s premier defenders since joining Dortmund from SC Freiburg in 2022.

According to the report, Liverpool is prepared to invest substantially in securing the defender’s services, with figures suggesting the Reds would be willing to table an offer exceeding €50 million (approximately £42 million).

And from a look at his underlying statistics, it does not come as a surprise that Liverpool are said to hold interest in the German international:

Nico Schlotterbeck.

Based on 3990 minutes played [FBref].

He has blend of defensive and offensive prowess that is required from a Liverpool centre-back, especially now under Arne Slot.

Borussia Dortmund, however, have no intention of losing Schlotterbeck without a fight.

Despite his contract running until 2027, the club has already initiated talks regarding an extension that would include a substantial salary increase, potentially elevating him to one of the club’s highest earners.

Beyond financial incentives, Dortmund are reportedly considering making Schlotterbeck their next captain, replacing the current skipper Emre Can

This promotion would solidify his status as the new figurehead of the club during a challenging period.

The German side’s ability to retain their defensive star may ultimately hinge on their footballing trajectory.

Currently sitting 10th in the Bundesliga and seven points adrift of the Champions League places, Dortmund face an uphill battle to secure European football for next season.

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