Dortmund – Nico Schlotterbeck has publicly cast doubt on reports of an imminent contract extension with Borussia Dortmund, adding another layer of complexity to the club’s off-field situation following the recent departure of sporting director Sebastian Kehl. The Germany international addressed the speculation following international duty with the national team, revealing that talks are not as advanced as previously reported.
Reports had suggested that Schlotterbeck was on the verge of signing a new deal with BVB, but the 26-year-old center-back refuted those claims, stating that the situation has been altered by Kehl’s exit. “It’s good you’re asking, due to the fact that I read it from you today. I’ll be honest: that’s not where we are, unfortunately,” Schlotterbeck told Sky, as reported by multiple outlets.
Schlotterbeck Denies Imminent Agreement
The confusion stems from a report by Sky earlier this week, which indicated that Schlotterbeck had signaled a willingness to extend his stay at the Signal Iduna Park and that a signing was planned after the international break. Schlotterbeck directly contradicted this account, emphasizing the impact of Kehl’s departure on the negotiations. “I negotiated with Sebastian for a long time. Sebastian is no longer here,” he said.
With Kehl now gone, the responsibility for player contracts now falls to Lars Ricken, the club’s managing director for sport, and Ole Book, Kehl’s replacement. “Now Ole will be my contact, along with Lars. That’s why I was happy to be asked the question. But what you said isn’t true at all,” Schlotterbeck clarified. He too confirmed that Book had already reached out to him, adding to his surprise at the recent reports.
“Of course, Ole has already called me, so I’m very surprised by the reporting,” Schlotterbeck added. “I had to address it again because I haven’t spoken about it often, but we’re not at the point where a signature is imminent.”
The defender acknowledged that Kehl’s exit has “changed the situation a little bit,” and expressed sympathy for the club’s supporters. “It’s frustrating for BVB fans too, but it’s not an easy situation for me either, because Sebastian left so recently.”
Contract Poker Continues at Borussia Dortmund
Bild reported last week that a new contract until 2031 was “almost completely negotiated,” with Schlotterbeck potentially earning up to €14 million per year and including a release clause of around €60 million for European top clubs. However, Dortmund has not commented on the report, and sources within the club reportedly expressed surprise at the claims. A swift resolution now appears unlikely, given Schlotterbeck’s recent statements.
The situation adds another challenge for Borussia Dortmund, who are already navigating the transition following Kehl’s unexpected departure. The club will be keen to resolve Schlotterbeck’s contract situation quickly to avoid further disruption, but the player’s comments suggest that negotiations will need to be reopened with the new leadership team.
Schlotterbeck’s importance to Dortmund’s defense is undeniable. He has become a key figure in the team’s backline since joining from SC Freiburg in 2022, and his performances have also earned him a place in the German national team. Losing him would be a significant blow to the club’s ambitions.
The recent suspension of Schlotterbeck by UEFA following a red card received from the bench during the Champions League match against Atalanta Bergamo adds another layer to the narrative. While the suspension itself is for one UEFA competition match due to “unsporting behaviour,” the incident highlighted the passionate and sometimes volatile atmosphere surrounding the club. The irony of the suspension – stemming from a reaction while on the bench – has been widely noted.
For now, the future of Nico Schlotterbeck at Borussia Dortmund remains uncertain. The player has made it clear that he is open to staying, but only if the conditions are right. With Kehl gone and a new leadership structure in place, the negotiations are set to enter a new phase.
Borussia Dortmund will next face VfB Stuttgart in a Bundesliga match on April 5th, 2026. The match will be a crucial one for Dortmund as they look to secure a Champions League spot for next season. The outcome of Schlotterbeck’s contract talks could have a significant impact on the club’s long-term prospects.
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