The search for a new center-back at FC Barcelona has begun after the unexpected departure of Iñigo Martínez to Saudi Arabia. Deco is clear about what conditions he wants to find in the market: a left-footed defender, with height, good ball distribution, and experience at the elite level. He is not in a hurry and will take his time, intending to make this signing next summer, but there is already a clear favorite.
Dortmund target
He saw him live last season and was amazed. "Madrid-Barcelona" has learned that Deco's favorite to strengthen the center of the defense is Nico Schlotterbeck from Borussia Dortmund. The German meets all the requirements set by the blaugrana sporting director, and his contract ends in 2027, so in a year he could be a real bargain.
He is one of the most highly rated defenders on the market and the Portuguese would be willing to pay €50 million for him. It is a significant investment, but it is completely worth it. Schlotterbeck would arrive at Camp Nou at 26 years old, at the best possible age and as the ideal partner for Pau Cubarsí in the heart of the Culer defense.
The Portuguese's idea is to get closer to Nico Schlotterbeck's camp in the coming months. He wants to gauge his availability and learn firsthand about his conditions to play for Barça. Clearly, Dortmund is too small for him and he needs to take a step up in the top elite. He is highly regarded, he is the favorite, although there are also other options that would be more affordable.
Barça-style defender
Nico Schlotterbeck has established himself as one of the most reliable and complete center-backs in German soccer. At 25 years old, the Borussia Dortmund defender stands out for his physical strength, dominance in the air, and precise ball distribution, qualities that are highly valued at FC Barcelona. His left-footed profile and ability to anticipate make him a highly interesting asset to strengthen Hansi Flick's squad.
At Barça, Schlotterbeck would fit in as the ideal partner for Pau Cubarsí in the center of the defense. While the young academy product brings composure, tactical awareness, and refined technique, the German would add power, international experience, and defensive aggression. Their characteristics complement each other perfectly, offering the team a solid and balanced partnership.
Hansi Flick knows the player well from his career in the Bundesliga and with the German national team. In his system, which requires center-backs capable of defending with a high line and participating in the build-up, Schlotterbeck could perform at a high level. His ability to bring the ball out under control and break lines with vertical passes fits the style that the coach uses most at Spotify Camp Nou.
For Barça, bringing in Schlotterbeck would be a step forward in its project, ensuring a defensive partnership for both the present and the future alongside Cubarsí.