Liverpool weigh Nico Schlotterbeck and Murillo in plans for Virgil van Dijk’s successor

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 club are assessing defenders who can cope with the physical demands of the Premier League, help Liverpool build from the back and cover space in a possession-based system.

Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck remains one of the leading candidates, despite extending his contract with the German club earlier this year.

Schlotterbeck had also been 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 Murillo of Nottingham Forest, along with Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni and Barcelona player Jules Kounde.

No formal offer has been made for either Schlotterbeck or Murillo. Liverpool’s work is still focused on monitoring the players, analysing their performances and assessing the conditions that could allow a deal to be completed in the future.

Schlotterbeck’s contract with Dortmund runs until 2031 and, according to reports, includes a release clause worth between 50m and 60m euros. That clause could be activated by certain clubs from summer 2027.

Outside those conditions, Dortmund are thought to be capable of demanding more than 70m euros for the Germany defender.

Schlotterbeck has developed into one of Dortmund’s key leaders. His strengths include carrying the ball forward, passing through defensive lines, competing strongly in challenges and dealing with aerial balls.

Murillo offers Premier League experience

According to CaughtOffside, Murillo represents a different but equally attractive option for Liverpool. The 24-year-old Brazilian already has experience of the Premier League and is known for his pace when recovering his defensive position, his strength in one-on-one situations and his confidence when bringing the ball out from defence, either by passing or carrying it forward.

Both players fit Liverpool’s wider transfer strategy, although they offer contrasting qualities.

Schlotterbeck may be the closer technical replacement for Van Dijk because he is left-footed, can break opposition lines with his passing and has developed a strong leadership presence during his time at Dortmund. At 26, he is approaching the prime years of his career and would not require a lengthy development period.

Murillo’s main 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 could also be particularly valuable in a defensive structure that asks both centre-backs to move into advanced areas and leave space behind them.

The potential transfer fee is the main obstacle. Nottingham Forest are under no financial pressure to sell one of their most important players, especially after receiving a substantial sum from Elliot Anderson’s move to Manchester City during the summer.

Murillo’s strong contractual position could therefore force Liverpool to make a very high offer if they are to persuade Forest to let him leave.