Borussia Dortmund superstar breaks silence on Real Madrid interest: ‘Of course you hear about these things’

Borussia Dortmund superstar breaks silence on Real Madrid interest: ‘Of course you hear about these things’ Real Madrid target and Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck has spoken publicly about reports connecting him with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu, acknowledging that he is aware of the growing rumours while making it clear where his current focus lies. The German international remains one of several defenders being monitored by Real Madrid as Jose Mourinho continues to push for further improvements to his back line ahead of the new season. Despite already strengthening their squad with the arrivals of Ibrahima Konate and Denzel Dumfries, Real Madrid are not finished in the transfer market. Real Madrid still exploring defensive options As reported before, Mourinho still wants another high-level defender capable of operating in multiple positions across the defensive line.  Versatility has become a key requirement, with the club looking for a player who can contribute both as a centre-back and as a full-back when needed. Schlotterbeck is still on Real Madrid’s radar. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images) At the top of Real Madrid’s reported shortlist are Josko Gvardiol and Riccardo Calafiori . However, neither deal appears straightforward given their importance to Manchester City and Arsenal, respectively. As a result, the club continue to monitor alternative targets. Among those options is Schlotterbeck, who has remained on Real Madrid’s radar for some time and is believed to be one of the names under serious consideration should other pursuits prove unsuccessful. Schlotterbeck addresses Real Madrid links The Borussia Dortmund defender is currently representing Germany at the World Cup, where questions about his future have inevitably followed him. Schlotterbeck has addressed Real Madrid links. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images) Asked about Real Madrid’s reported interest, Schlotterbeck did not dismiss the rumours but stressed that his attention is currently elsewhere. “Yes, of course you hear about these things through the media, but basically, as I said a few weeks ago, all my attention is now on the World Cup, on the first match,” he said, as per SPORT . Judging by his response, it is safe to say that Schlotterbeck is determined to avoid distractions and focus on the World Cup. Although he recently signed a new contract with Borussia Dortmund , reports indicate that an exit route still remains available through a release clause believed to be worth around €50 million.