Liverpool must act fast to sign Schlotterbeck

Richard Hughes must act quickly to secure Nico Schlotterbeck as Liverpool's replacement for Ibrahima Konate, who has left Anfield. Ibrahima Konate packed his bags and exited Anfield after negotiations stalled. A month earlier he said the parties were close to a new deal, but the extension was removed when final terms could not be agreed. Jeremy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni will be available, yet Liverpool still need another centre-back before the 2026‑27 season begins. Real Madrid are preparing an offer for Nico Schlotterbeck, who can play left-back or centre-back. He recently agreed an extension with Borussia Dortmund that contains a release clause triggering a €50‑60 million fee under a World Cup‑related condition. Compared with Marcos Senesi, Schlotterbeck offers more Champions League experience. Schlotterbeck has made 37 appearances and scored five goals across all competitions. In the 2025‑26 Bundesliga season he won 62.9 % of aerial duels and 62 % of ground duels per 90 minutes. He recorded an 88.3 % pass accuracy and was dribbled past only 0.29 times per game. Liverpool would need to move Virgil van Dijk to right centre-back to accommodate Schlotterbeck. At roughly £50 million the club sees no better option on the market. The Reds must finalize the deal before Real Madrid act.