Borussia Dortmund are bracing for a potential defensive overhaul next summer, with reports suggesting that star centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck could be on his way to Bayern Munich. The German international, who has been a cornerstone of Dortmund’s backline since joining from Freiburg, is reportedly attracting strong interest from the Bundesliga champions.
Schlotterbeck’s contract with Dortmund runs until 2027, but there has been little movement toward an extension — a situation that has not gone unnoticed in Munich. According to Sport, Bayern are keeping close tabs on the 25-year-old as they look to strengthen their central defense for the 2026 season. While Dortmund would prefer to keep their key defender, they might be forced to consider a sale if renewal talks remain stalled.
To prepare for such a possibility, Dortmund’s recruitment team has already begun exploring replacement options, with Chelsea’s Axel Disasi emerging as a primary target. The French international was signed by the London club in 2023 for a reported €45 million from Monaco, but he has struggled to cement his place as a consistent starter at Stamford Bridge.
Now 27, Disasi spent the second half of the 2024/25 campaign on loan at Aston Villa, where he regained some of his form and confidence. However, new Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca reportedly does not view him as part of his long-term plans — creating an opportunity that Dortmund could exploit.
Adding an intriguing twist to the story is Disasi’s connection with Dortmund head coach Niko Kovac, under whom he played for two seasons at Monaco. That past relationship could play a pivotal role in convincing the French defender to make the switch to Germany, where he would likely receive regular game time and a fresh start in a top European league.
The situation becomes even more critical when considering that Niklas Süle, another key defender, is approaching the end of his contract next summer. Süle may have to accept a pay cut if he wishes to stay at the Signal Iduna Park.
If Schlotterbeck does make the highly controversial move to Bayern Munich, it would not only strengthen their already dominant defense but also reignite tensions between the two Bundesliga rivals. For Dortmund, signing Disasi could provide both quality and familiarity as they aim to rebuild and stay competitive at the top of German football.
