Antonio Rudiger touts Germany teammate for Real Madrid move

Real Madrid are continuing plans to strengthen Jose Mourinho’s squad for the start of the 2026-27 season, which starts in August. They have already signed Ibrahima Konate, Denzel Dumfries, Marc Cucurella and Bernardo Silva, but there are still more additions to be made – including another central defender.

Konate is not enough for Real Madrid and Mourinho, who want another big name added before the end of the summer. They have been linked with the likes of Ruben Dias and Tomas Araujo in recent weeks, while another player on their radar is Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck.

Schlotterbeck, who is reported to have a €50m release clause in the Dortmund contract he signed earlier this year, is well-liked within Real Madrid. One person that would be keen to see him move to the Bernabeu this summer is Germany teammate Antonio Rudiger, who spoke highly of his compatriot during a media appearance this week (via MD).

“Nico has always been a threat, especially from set pieces. He is aggressive, he is always present in duels and his build-up game is exceptional. His left foot is wonderful. Good players are always welcome (at Real Madrid). But I don’t want to say much more about it. I would be delighted (if he joined).”

Is Nico Schlotterbeck the right signing for Real Madrid?

Schlotterbeck has been one of the most underrated centre-backs in Europe over the last few seasons, and there is no doubt that he would be a top signing for Real Madrid. €50m would be a very good price for a player that is still yet to reach his prime, given that he is only 26 years of age.

It remains to be seen whether Schlotterbeck is the player that Real Madrid go for, but his signing would make a lot of sense. The first team lacks a natural left-sided option following David Alaba’s exit, and they would get that with the Dortmund man.