Liverpool line up £57m Nico Schlotterbeck as four-man shortlist to replace Virgil van Dijk

Liverpool have drawn up a four-man shortlist of centre-backs to replace Virgil van Dijk, with Borussia Dortmund's Nico Schlotterbeck and Nottingham Forest's Murillo among the leading targets, according to CaughtOffside. The Dutchman's contract expires at the end of the season and no extension talks are planned.

  • Main targets: Nico Schlotterbeck (Borussia Dortmund) and Murillo (Nottingham Forest)
  • Other shortlisted: Alessandro Bastoni (Inter Milan) and Jules Koundé (Barcelona)
  • Schlotterbeck valuation: £47-50m for specific clubs from summer 2027; £57m for other clubs
  • Murillo situation: Four years left on contract; Forest want a significant offer above his £41m Transfermarkt valuation
  • Van Dijk contract: Expires at the end of the current season; no extension talks in sight

Deal details

Liverpool are stepping up plans to rebuild their backline amid uncertainty over Virgil van Dijk's future. The club have shortlisted Dortmund's Nico Schlotterbeck and Forest's Murillo as possible replacements, according to CaughtOffside. Schlotterbeck remains one of the Reds' leading targets, with his leadership qualities, on-ball ability, combativeness in duels, aerial dominance and capacity to step into midfield aligning with what Liverpool are seeking.

Dortmund have set a valuation of around £47-50m in Schlotterbeck's new contract for specific clubs from summer 2027, and a £57m valuation for other clubs. Liverpool are not mentioned outright in that clause.

Murillo is admired for his proven Premier League experience, aggressive defending, pace and ability to carry the ball out from the back. With four years remaining on his contract, Forest are in no hurry to sell the Brazilian international and will only consider a significant offer, likely well above his £41m Transfermarkt valuation.

In addition to Schlotterbeck and Murillo, Liverpool also have Inter Milan's Alessandro Bastoni and Barcelona's Jules Koundé on their shortlist of centre-back targets. All four are experienced defenders with qualities useful to manager Andoni Iraola.

Why Schlotterbeck and Murillo fit Liverpool's rebuild

Virgil van Dijk has been the most consistent defender in England over the past decade, hailed by Jamie Carragher as 'the best centre-back we've ever seen in the Premier League'. Replacing that influence is a strategic necessity. Nico Schlotterbeck, captain of Dortmund, offers leadership and composure in possession, plus the ability to step into midfield — traits that suit a high line and build-up play.

Murillo brings Premier League know-how and aggressive defending. His recovery pace and ball-carrying from deep would give Liverpool a different option, though Forest's strong negotiating position means any deal would be costly.

Alessandro Bastoni and Jules Koundé provide further alternatives, but Schlotterbeck's age profile and leadership make him the standout target. The clause structure from summer 2027 suggests Dortmund are preparing for his exit, and Liverpool will need to decide whether to pay the premium or wait.

Talking points

  • Is Schlotterbeck worth £57m when Liverpool could wait for the £47-50m clause to activate in 2027?
  • Murillo's aggression and pace suit the Premier League, but his £41m valuation is likely a starting point — how high should Liverpool go?
  • Should Liverpool prioritise a ready-made replacement for Van Dijk or invest in a younger profile like Schlotterbeck?
  • With Bastoni and Koundé also on the list, is Schlotterbeck truly the top target or just the most attainable?

What happens next

Liverpool will continue to monitor their shortlist ahead of the 2027 transfer windows. Van Dijk's contract situation will dictate the urgency, and any formal approach for Schlotterbeck or Murillo will test Dortmund and Forest's resolve. The next international window could see the first concrete moves.

Frequently asked questions

Who are Liverpool targeting to replace Virgil van Dijk?

Liverpool have shortlisted Nico Schlotterbeck, Murillo, Alessandro Bastoni and Jules Koundé as potential centre-back targets.

How much would Nico Schlotterbeck cost Liverpool?

Dortmund have set a valuation of around £47-50m for specific clubs from summer 2027, and £57m for other clubs.

Is Virgil van Dijk leaving Liverpool?

Van Dijk's contract expires at the end of the current season, and there are no contract extension talks in sight.

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