Vincent Kompany plays down Nico Schlotterbeck links as Bayern Munich eye defensive shake-up

Bayern's back line has come under scrutiny in recent months, with uncertainty surrounding both Dayot Upamecano and Kim Min-jae.

Upamecano's contract talks have reportedly stalled over a significant signing-on fee, while Kim's inconsistent form last season has raised doubts about his long-term future at the club. Serie A teams are believed to be monitoring the South Korean's situation closely.

Those concerns have prompted Bayern to consider long-term solutions, with Schlotterbeck emerging as a leading target. The 25-year-old German international has impressed for Dortmund since joining from Freiburg in 2022, and his current deal runs until 2027.

Dortmund are said to be keen on extending that contract until 2030, but Schlotterbeck has yet to commit, leaving open the possibility of a summer move.

With Saturday's Der Klassiker against Dortmund approaching, Kompany was asked directly about Bayern's reported interest. "I only see Nico Schlotterbeck as an opponent tomorrow," he said. "He's a player with good progressive passes and links up well with Guirassy.

"His build-up play is very important for Dortmund, but for me, he's just an opponent this week."

Schlotterbeck's ability to dictate play from deep and his composure under pressure have made him one of Europe's most admired ball-playing defenders. His form has attracted interest beyond Germany, with Liverpool, Real Madrid and Barcelona all keeping a close eye on his situation ahead of what could become a competitive transfer battle next summer.