Overview
- Nico Schlotterbeck told Sky he had good talks with Lars Ricken and new sporting director Nils Ole Book, with negotiations set to continue this week and a decision expected soon.
- Lars Ricken said the trust with the defender remains intact after a private meeting and described the player as open and engaged in the process.
- Reports had suggested a collapse in talks, but Schlotterbeck said he only corrected premature claims of an agreement and added that he cannot please everyone.
- Real Madrid and Barcelona are tracking the situation, with some outlets reporting an unconfirmed release clause that could become relevant in 2027.
- The outcome will shape Dortmund’s back-line planning and could push Spanish giants to pursue other defensive targets in the next window.