Liverpool given green light for €50m release clause buy: report

Photo of Anfield stadium from the stands. .

Liverpool are one of a reported three clubs that can activate the release clause of Nico Schlotterbeck, as the Reds look to strengthen their backline.

Liverpool are joined by Real Madrid on the exclusive list of clubs capable of triggering the German centre-back’s release clause, which is between €50-60 million.

The Reds completed the signing of Rennes’ centre-back Jeremy Jacquet, who featured in FourFourTwo's 'The Boy's A Bit Special' series, in February, looking to both strengthen their current and build a future backline.

Release clause for Schlotterbeck must be triggered by strict deadline

Three clubs are reported to be part of the exclusive group capable of triggering Nico Schlotterbeck’s release clause, with the third currently remaining unknown.

Liverpool and Real Madrid will have the option to do so, provided they meet the soon approaching deadline that is not valid for the entire summer transfer window.

Nico Schlotterbeck is both a viable partner and replacement for Virgil van Dijk at Liverpool. (Image credit: Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

According to Florian Plettenberg, if Liverpool want Schlotterbeck, they must trigger the clause by the time of the World Cup 2026 final on July 19.

BILD have also confirmed that Schlotterbeck’s release clause lies within the region of €50-60 million - a strangely low price for the Borussia Dortmund man.

Schlotterbeck has featured in three of the previous four Bundesliga Team of the Season line-ups, with appearances in the 2021-22, 2022-23 and 2024-25 selections.

The German defender also averages seven accurate long balls per game, the highest in the Bundesliga this season, with Joshua Kimmich claiming second place.

Schlotterbeck’s passing ability paired with his impressive defensive capabilities could make him both a viable replacement and suitable partner for Virgil van Dijk next season and for when the Dutchman eventually leaves Liverpool.

The German defender's passing ability makes him stand out as a possible replacement for Liverpool's Dutch giant. (Image credit: Getty Images)

The 26-year-old recently penned a new deal at Borussia Dortmund until 2031, putting an end to rumours of the German making the move to Manchester United in the summer.

Unless the Red Devils are revealed to be the rumoured third club that can trigger Schlotterbeck’s release clause, it is Liverpool and Real Madrid in the exclusive position to sign the German and secure the future of their backlines.

Liverpool return to Premier League action in this Sunday’s Merseyside derby, away at the Hill Dickinson stadium.