Borussia Dortmund sporting director Lars Ricken has warned defender Nico Schlotterbeck that, while he respects the player’s decision to delay signing a new contract, the German side will not allow the situation to drag on indefinitely. The German international, who has attracted interest from Bayern Munich and Liverpool, has a deal running until 2027.

Dortmund eager to extend Schlotterbeck contract

Dortmund are looking to extend Schlotterbeck’s contract, which runs until 2027, until 2030. The extension would see his wages triple, taking his earnings close to €8 million. However, Schlotterbeck has remained non-committal about signing a renewal, as he wants to make a decision that aligns with what’s best for his career.

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In an interview with , Dortmund sporting director Lars Ricken supported Schlotterbeck’s decision to take his time over the contract renewal, saying: “It is his absolute right to plan his future carefully. We respect that. And I believe that the focus should not be on salary, but on prospects, trust and conviction.”

However, Ricken also warned that the club would not wait forever, adding: “We will not rush into anything. But of course, we don't want to drag it out indefinitely, everyone is aware of that."

Interest from Bayern and Liverpool in Schlotterbeck

Schlotterbeck has attracted interest from European giants Bayern Munich and Liverpool. Bayern and Germany legend Lothar Matthaus has urged the club’s management to pursue him, believing he has the quality to succeed at Bayern. "I also believe that perhaps one or two contacts or one or two conversations have already taken place," he added.

Meanwhile, English club Liverpool are also keen on the German defender, viewing him as a long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk.

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Getty Schlotterbeck to face Bayern this weekend

Dortmund will hope to fend off interest from Bayern and Liverpool and secure Schlotterbeck on a long-term deal. The defender, meanwhile, will be focused on Der Klassiker against Bayern on Saturday and aiming for silverware this season, after which he is expected to reassess his options.