Nico Schlotterbeck is fast-becoming the most talked-about defensive prospect in European football right now.

Currently plying his trade for Borussia Dortmund, the German has shown immense potential and is regarded as one of the best defenders in the Bundesliga.

Schlotterbeck’s success has not gone unnoticed, with Real Madrid and Barcelona among the clubs interested in his services.

Real Madrid, in particular, have been tracking his progress for quite some time now, as he fits the kind of profile the club are looking for – a defensive leader who is fast, effective and versatile.

Liverpool also interested in Schlotterbeck

However, Real Madrid’s pursuit of Schlotterbeck won’t be easy, especially now that clubs like Liverpool have also joined the race to sign the German international, reports Cadena SER.

For the longest time, it was presumed that Real Madrid and Barcelona would emerge as the two main suitors for the Borussia Dortmund star.

But it appears Premier League clubs, too, are keen on the services of the German international, whose contract at Dortmund expires in 2027.

Priced at somewhere around €50 million, Schlotterbeck has the potential to become the best centre-back in world football, which makes him even more attractive for clubs like Liverpool, who are desperately looking for defensive reinforcements.

However, Real Madrid may have an advantage in the race to sign Schlotterbeck. The club’s president, Florentino Perez, has an excellent relationship with Borussia Dortmund and the two clubs have been involved in multiple deals in the past, including Jude Bellingham.

Real Madrid can utilise that relationship to gain an upper hand in the pursuit. But it will ultimately depend on the player himself, especially amid interest from some of the biggest clubs in Europe.