Schlotterbeck denies imminent Dortmund renewal, reopening door for Real Madrid

Stuttgart, Germany - March 30: Antonio Ruediger of Germany and Nico Schlotterbeck of Germany gestures during the international friendly match between Germany and Ghana at MHP Arena on March 30, 2026 in Stuttgart, Germany. (Photo by Harry Langer/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images) | DeFodi Images via Getty Images Real Madrid’s reported interest in Borussia Dortmund center-back Nico Schlotterbeck has taken another turn after the player publicly pushed back on recent claims about his future. Earlier this week, a report from Bild suggested that Schlotterbeck was close to renewing his contract with Dortmund, a development that would effectively remove him from Real Madrid’s shortlist as they look to strengthen their defense.

The news was seen as a setback for Madrid, who have been monitoring the German international as a potential option. However, Schlotterbeck himself has now cast serious doubt on those reports. Speaking after Germany’s friendly against Ghana, the defender denied that a contract extension is imminent, contradicting the earlier narrative.

“I’m glad you asked, because I read it in your news today. To be honest, I have to categorically deny it (that his renewal with Dortmund is close to happening). Unfortunately, we haven’t reached that point yet.

” His comments reopen the situation and suggest that his future remains unresolved, potentially keeping the door open for interested clubs. Schlotterbeck also pointed to changes behind the scenes at Dortmund as a factor complicating negotiations. Sebastian Kehl, who had been leading discussions with the player, is no longer in his role, meaning talks have effectively had to restart with new figures at the club.