Real Madrid News
Just in: Real Madrid rule out move for Borussia Dortmund defender
Real Madrid’s search for a new centre-back has taken another turn, with Nico Schlotterbeck no longer considered a realistic option for the Spanish giants.
According to The Athletic, club sources have effectively ruled out Nico Schlotterbeck to Real Madrid, despite the Borussia Dortmund defender having been admired internally for a considerable period.
The German international had previously emerged as one of the preferred candidates to strengthen a defence that struggled with inconsistency and injuries over the past season.
However, circumstances have changed significantly in recent weeks.
The latest Real Madrid transfer news suggests that while Jose Mourinho remains keen on adding another defender to his squad, Schlotterbeck has now fallen out of contention.
Schlotterbeck injury update alters Real Madrid plans
The Borussia Dortmund defender suffered an ankle injury during the FIFA World Cup, a setback that is expected to keep him out for around two months.
That timeline means Schlotterbeck will not only miss the remainder of the tournament but could also be unavailable for the opening weeks of the new La Liga campaign.
Earlier reports indicated that Real Madrid continued to monitor the player despite his injury concerns, believing his qualities still made him one of the best options available in the market.
However, Mario Cortegana has now revealed that Nico Schlotterbeck is out of the Real Madrid running, significantly reducing the chances of any deal materialising this summer.
Fitness concerns appear to have played a major role in the decision, especially given Madrid’s desire to recruit players capable of making an immediate impact.
Missing the start of the season inevitably affects Schlotterbeck’s attractiveness compared to alternative targets who are fully available.
Mourinho wants a new centre-back
Jose Mourinho’s plans for Real Madrid include another defensive signing before the transfer window closes.
The Portuguese manager is understood to have requested reinforcements at centre-back, with the club acknowledging the need to add depth following a campaign heavily disrupted by injuries.
On that note, with Schlotterbeck no longer among the leading candidates, attention has started shifting towards other names under consideration.
One player increasingly linked with the Santiago Bernabeu is Tomas Araujo, who is believed to fit the profile Madrid are seeking, although there has been no movement on that front.
One of the main objectives for Real Madrid this summer was to bring in a new central midfielder capable of controlling the tempo and dictating the play from the middle.
A move for Rodri was in the works before the Spain captain decided to sign for FC Barcelona. The Merengues assessed several other options, but ended up not signing any player, with Jose Mourinho deciding to use Bernardo Silva in the double pivot.
One of the midfielders that Real Madrid were looking at as an option was Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace.
The England international has been on the club’s radar for a while now, but the Premier League club never opened the door for a summer departure.
Wharton could be on the market in 2027
However, now, according to The Guardian (h/t Bernabeu Digital), That stance could change next year, as that Palace would be prepared to consider selling Wharton during the next summer transfer window.
As mentioned already, Real Madrid have closely followed Wharton’s situation throughout the summer, although the club ultimately decided against making any further additions to their midfield.
Manchester City and Chelsea also showed serious interest in signing the England international during the summer. However, Crystal Palace were unwilling to sell, effectively ruling out a move for the midfielder.
But it appears that they could open the doors for Wharton to leave in the summer of 2027, potentially paving the way for Real Madrid to make a move.
Real Madrid continue to monitor Wharton
Real Madrid are expected to keep a close eye on Wharton’s progress ahead of the 2027 market. Should they decide they need another high-quality midfielder, the 22-year-old could once again emerge as a candidate.
Manchester City may be less likely to return for Wharton after strengthening their midfield significantly this summer.
Chelsea, however, could remain a potential competitor after failing to add a player in the position during the latest window.
For now, Wharton will remain at Crystal Palace, but the club’s willingness to consider a sale next summer means the midfielder could become a realistic option for Real Madrid in 2027.
