Liverpool’s defensive shortlist grows as Murillo and Schlotterbeck come under review

Liverpool are stepping up their long-term planning for a defensive rebuild as uncertainty continues over the futures of Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez.

The English club are assessing centre-backs who can cope with the physical demands of the Premier League, help construct attacks from deep and defend space behind an advanced back line. The ability to operate in a possession-based system is also a key part of Liverpool’s requirements.

Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck remains one of the leading candidates, despite having signed a new contract with the German club earlier this year. Schlotterbeck was also a target for Real Madrid during the most recent summer transfer window before suffering ankle ligament damage at the 2026 World Cup.

Liverpool are also monitoring Nottingham Forest’s Murillo, while Alessandro Bastoni of Inter Milan and Barcelona defender Jules Kounde are among the other players attracting interest.

No formal offer has been made for either Schlotterbeck or Murillo. Liverpool’s work is currently focused on tracking the defenders, analysing their performances and assessing the conditions that could make future transfers possible.

Schlotterbeck’s contract with Dortmund runs until 2031. Reports indicate it contains a release clause worth between 50m euros and 60m euros, although it can be activated only by certain clubs from the summer of 2027.

Outside those conditions, Dortmund are expected to demand more than 70m euros to sell the Germany international.

The 26-year-old has developed into one of Dortmund’s leading figures. His ability to carry the ball forward and play through the lines from defence is complemented by his strength in challenges and effectiveness in the air.

Different strengths

According to Caught Offside, Murillo would offer Liverpool a different but equally appealing profile. The 24-year-old Brazilian already has Premier League experience and is noted for his pace when recovering his defensive position, his strength in one-on-one situations and his confidence in progressing the ball through either passing or carrying it forward.

Both defenders fit Liverpool’s wider transfer strategy, but their qualities would address different needs.

Schlotterbeck appears the closer technical replacement for Van Dijk. His preference for playing on the left, ability to break opposition lines with his distribution and increasingly authoritative character at Dortmund all match the demands of that role. At 26, he is approaching the prime years of his career and would not require an extended development period.

Murillo’s major advantage is his familiarity with the Premier League. That would reduce the risk surrounding his ability to handle the competition’s pace, physical intensity and demanding tempo.

His speed would also be valuable in a defensive structure where both centre-backs are expected to push into advanced areas and leave space behind them.

The main obstacle would be the likely cost. Nottingham Forest are under no financial pressure to sell one of their key players, particularly after receiving a substantial fee for Elliot Anderson’s move to Manchester City during the summer.

Murillo’s strong contractual position could therefore force Liverpool to make a very significant offer if they are to persuade Forest to sanction his departure.