Three-way battle to sign Dortmund player

Nico Schlotterbeck has emerged as a potential target for Barcelona after rejecting a contract extension with Borussia Dortmund, according to Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo. The 26-year-old German defender turned down an offer from his club to increase his salary from €2.5 million to €8 million annually, bringing negotiations to a complete standstill and making his departure when his contract expires in 2027 a strong possibility. Barcelona are still searching for a top-class left-back, and Schlotterbeck appears to perfectly match the club's needs. Furthermore, coach Hansi Flick, who gave him his first opportunity with the German national team, is well aware of his capabilities. However, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are also monitoring the player. With Dortmund reluctant to sell their players to domestic rivals, a move abroad seems the most likely scenario for Schlotterbeck, potentially setting the stage for a battle between the two Spanish giants for his signature should the opportunity arise.