Liverpool Shortlist Four Centre-Backs to Succeed Virgil van Dijk, Including Nico Schlotterbeck

Liverpool’s Four-Man Centre-Back Wishlist

Liverpool have reportedly drawn up a list of four defenders to eventually replace Virgil van Dijk, according to Football Insider. Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck sits alongside Nottingham Forest’s Murillo, Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni and Barcelona’s Jules Kounde. The Reds are expected to add to their defensive options across the next two transfer windows.

Why Schlotterbeck Appeals to Liverpool

The Germany international has made 167 appearances for Dortmund, contributing 30 goals, and has 40 Champions League outings behind him. His left-footed profile and ability to cover at left-back add versatility. Liverpool reportedly chased him last summer, but his new Dortmund contract could make a deal far trickier.

Van Dijk’s Future Behind the Search

Van Dijk, 35, is nearing 400 appearances since joining from Southampton in January 2018. His deal expires next summer, leaving Liverpool to decide whether to extend or plan without him. Joe Gomez is also approaching the end of his contract, adding urgency.

The Other Targets

Murillo has become a key figure at Forest, while Bastoni is a regular for Inter with a contract running to 2028. Kounde has reportedly struggled for regular football at Barcelona this season. Ronald Araujo is expected to be retained permanently, though his long-term role under Andoni Iraola may be at right-back.

Our Take

Schlotterbeck looks the most intriguing name for balance, but a fresh Dortmund deal makes him an expensive pursuit. Murillo’s Premier League experience could prove the safer route. A succession plan for a defender of Van Dijk’s stature was always going to be complicated.