Transfers
Mourinho eyes left-footed Nico Schlotterbeck for Real Madrid
Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho is actively pursuing a left‑footed centre‑back this summer, after already securing Ibrahima Konate. Ben Fernandes Santos reported that Mourinho does not value the existing central‑defensive options highly and has singled out the profile for recruitment. The Portuguese coach’s most concrete target appears to be Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck.
Initially, Riccardo Calafiori and Josko Gvardiol were rumoured as Real Madrid’s top left‑footed defensive targets. Calafiori now seems an unlikely prospect, while a Spanish journalist has ruled Manchester City star Josko Gvardiol out. Both players were linked to the club before the focus shifted.
Nico Schlotterbeck has been on Real Madrid’s radar for a long time. Reports say he is waiting for an official offer from the Merengues. His contract includes a €50 million release clause that could be triggered for a value‑for‑money signing.
Antonio Rudiger welcomed the potential arrival of Schlotterbeck in a recent interview. “Good players are always welcome. But I don’t want to say much more about it. I’d be happy,” he said.
Arsenal’s Piero Hincapie is another option linked to Mourinho’s plan. The Ecuadorian defender was previously considered as a left‑back before Real Madrid signed Marc Cucurella. Last summer the club discussed a possible €60 million transfer for Hincapie. A third name, Alessandro Bastoni, has also been cited as Mourinho’s priority, but Inter Milan’s public defence suggests a sizeable fee will be required.