

Key Takeaways:
- Borussia Dortmund have reportedly reached an agreement to retain Nico Schlotterbeck until 2031
- The 26-year-old is set to earn an annual salary of €14m under the new deal
- A €60m release clause will become active in Schlotterbeck’s contract from summer 2027
Contract Details and Negotiation Timeline
According to a report by Bild, Borussia Dortmund and Nico Schlotterbeck have reached an agreement that will see the centre-back extend his tenure at Signal Iduna Park until 2031. The negotiations, described as lengthy and protracted, appear to be nearing completion, bringing an end to months of speculation regarding the future of the 26-year-old defender.
Under the new arrangement, Schlotterbeck is set to receive an annual salary of approximately €14m. The contract also features a release clause, valued at €60m, which will come into effect from the summer of 2027. The deal is expected to be finalised once the player returns from international duty.
🚨 𝗡𝗘𝗪: Borussia Dortmund are very close to renewing Nico Schlotterbeck until 2031.
The new deal will have a release clause.
— @MatteMoretto pic.twitter.com/L56ekJnNJu
— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) March 24, 2026
Strategic Implications for Borussia Dortmund
Schlotterbeck’s extension follows on the heels of Felix Nmecha’s recent contract renewal, highlighting Borussia Dortmund’s strategy to retain key talent and build a competitive squad for the years ahead. The introduction of a release clause signals that the club must maintain a high level of ambition and success to match Schlotterbeck’s aspirations—most notably, challenging Bayern Munich for domestic honours.
Failure to achieve these goals could open the door for top clubs across Europe to activate the release clause and lure the 26-year-old defender away from Dortmund.
| Player | Age | Club | Contract End | Salary (€ per year) | Release Clause (€) | Clause Valid From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nico Schlotterbeck | 26 | Borussia Dortmund | 2031 | 14,000,000 | 60,000,000 | Summer 2027 |




