Nico Schlotterbeck's BVB Contract Saga: World Cup Release Clause Demanded

The defender reportedly wants to keep open the possibility of leaving BVB this summer, even if he extends his contract, following the World Cup.

German record international Lothar Matthäus claims that Nico Schlotterbeck's premature contract extension with BVB is being held up by his demand for a release clause that would be valid as early as this summer.

Matthäus stated: "He absolutely wants the release clause after the World Cup included. He hopes that by performing well at the World Cup, potentially as a starting central defender for a successful German national team, he can put himself back in the spotlight and ultimately get the chance to move to an even bigger club – where he might receive greater recognition than he currently does at Dortmund."

However, the exact terms of the potential clause are reportedly still unclear. Matthäus added: "I believe that's still somewhat under discussion. And I know that Dortmund would be willing to grant him this release clause."

Nico Schlotterbeck's Contract with BVB Runs Until 2027

Nico Schlotterbeck's contract with Borussia Dortmund runs until 2027. (Image: Nico Schlotterbeck)

Schlotterbeck's current contract with Borussia Dortmund extends until the summer of 2027. For months, the Black and Yellows have been trying to secure an extension, but without success so far. The topic resurfaced recently when the central defender denied an imminent agreement after a national team match. He cited, among other things, that he had negotiated for a long time with former BVB sporting director Sebastian Kehl and now needed to speak with his successor, Ole Book.

That conversation indeed took place last Wednesday, as confirmed by Book after Dortmund's 2-0 Bundesliga victory on Saturday evening. Schlotterbeck then clarified his earlier statements from the beginning of the week, emphasizing: "I wanted to clear things up because there was a lot of talk directed at me personally. If a media outlet writes that I'm signing this week and I don't, then I look foolish. I can't really please anyone."

The 26-year-old defender further added: "I had a good conversation with Lars Ricken and Ole. We will continue the discussions this week. I don't think it will be long until I make a decision."

Will the Schlotterbeck Extension Happen Quickly After All?

However, two factors now suggest that an agreement could be reached swiftly. Firstly, Schlotterbeck seems to realize that his "stalling tactics risk losing significant favor with the fans." Secondly, no absolute top club has "made a truly serious offer" in their pursuit of his services.

He would keep the door open for a move to a European giant through the release clause mentioned by Matthäus, which would involve a fixed transfer fee that isn't excessively high.