**Lothar Matthäus Urges Bayern Munich to Target Nico Schlotterbeck as Dayot Upamecano’s Contract Talks Stall**
Bayern Munich legend Lothar Matthäus has suggested that the club should turn their attention to Borussia Dortmund’s centre-back, Nico Schlotterbeck, if they are unable to secure a new contract for Dayot Upamecano. The advice from the former German international comes at a critical time for Bayern, as uncertainty grows over Upamecano’s long-term future at the Allianz Arena.
Upamecano, who joined Bayern from RB Leipzig in 2021, has established himself as one of the Bundesliga’s most dominant defenders. His blend of pace, strength, and tactical intelligence has made him an important figure in the Bavarian defense. However, with his current contract set to expire in less than 12 months, negotiations over an extension have yet to reach a breakthrough.
According to reports, talks between Bayern and the French defender’s representatives have been ongoing for several weeks, but no agreement has been finalized. The delay has raised concerns within the club and among supporters, as several European heavyweights — including Premier League side Liverpool — are now said to be monitoring the situation closely.
Liverpool, who may be planning to strengthen their defensive line next summer, reportedly view Upamecano as an ideal addition to their squad. With Virgil van Dijk entering the latter stages of his career and Ibrahima Konaté facing periodic injury issues, the Frenchman’s experience and proven track record in both domestic and European competitions make him an attractive option for Jürgen Klopp’s side.
Matthäus, a respected voice in German football and a strong advocate for domestic talent, believes that Bayern should already be considering potential replacements in case Upamecano decides to leave. He specifically named Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck as a perfect candidate. The 24-year-old German international has impressed consistently since moving to Borussia Dortmund from SC Freiburg in 2022, becoming one of the most reliable defenders in the Bundesliga.
“Schlotterbeck has the composure, strength, and leadership qualities needed to thrive at a club like Bayern,” Matthäus reportedly said. “If Upamecano doesn’t extend his contract, Bayern should act quickly — Schlotterbeck would be the perfect fit for their defensive system.”
Schlotterbeck’s ability to read the game, play out from the back, and maintain composure under pressure has made him a standout performer in recent seasons. His performances for Dortmund and the German national team have also demonstrated maturity beyond his years, suggesting that he could handle the pressure of representing one of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Bayern Munich, meanwhile, find themselves in a familiar position — managing contract renewals for key players while trying to keep pace with Europe’s elite. Losing a defender of Upamecano’s calibre would undoubtedly be a blow, especially considering his development into one of Thomas Tuchel’s most trusted players.
With the January transfer window approaching, Bayern’s management faces a crucial decision: either finalize an extension for Upamecano or begin planning for his possible departure. Matthäus’s recommendation of Schlotterbeck could prove prophetic if Bayern decide to act preemptively to secure their defensive stability for the coming seasons.
For now, all eyes remain on the contract negotiations in Munich — and on whether Matthäus’s advice sparks movement behind the scenes at the Allianz Arena.
