Is Nico Schlotterbeck Pressuring BVB? Man Utd & Liverpool See Opportunity

Confusion surrounds Nico Schlotterbeck's contract situation at Borussia Dortmund following his recent statements regarding a delayed extension. It appears two European giants are already circling.

According to reports, the German international is believed to be utilizing the chaotic circumstances surrounding the departure of Sporting Director Sebastian Kehl to exert greater pressure on Borussia Dortmund's management.

Schlotterbeck's alleged objective is to adjust the contract terms in his favor, renegotiating his salary and potential release clause. Previously, discussions centered on an annual salary of 14 million euros and a 60 million euro release clause becoming active in 2027.

Furthermore, an exit option after the upcoming World Cup is reportedly a high priority for the 26-year-old. Should he deliver a strong performance with the German national team, Schlotterbeck is said to desire the flexibility to leave BVB as early as this summer and join another club.

It is also reported that this latest unclear situation has prompted Manchester United and Liverpool to reconsider a potential transfer. Both English clubs are reportedly poised to act if Dortmund and Schlotterbeck fail to agree on an extended collaboration.

Schlotterbeck's Contract Statements Create Stir

Following Germany's 2-1 victory against Ghana on Monday evening, Schlotterbeck emphatically denied reports of an agreement in contract negotiations with the Black and Yellows, thereby fueling fresh speculation.

"We are unfortunately not yet at the point where the signing is imminent. That's why I need to address this. To be honest, I must clearly deny those reports. I negotiated with Sebastian (Kehl), who is no longer here. I probably would have made a decision in the coming weeks. Now the situation has changed a bit, and I just have to see," explained the 26-year-old.

Internally at BVB, it is suspected that Schlotterbeck is using the mention of Kehl's departure as an opportunity to buy himself more time to consider his options. Furthermore, the club reportedly has no plans to withdraw their offer, as matters are still within the agreed timeframe.

BVB - Fixture List: Borussia Dortmund's Upcoming Matches

Date	Match
April 4, 6:30 PM	VfB Stuttgart - BVB (Bundesliga)
April 11, 3:30 PM	BVB - Bayer Leverkusen (Bundesliga)
April 18, 3:30 PM	TSG Hoffenheim - BVB (Bundesliga)