Schlotterbeck. I follow my connection with Real Madrid in the media… and my focus is different now

commented the German “Borussia Dortmund” defender Niko Schlotterbeck for his presence in the sphere of interests of “Real”. To strengthen the defensive line at the request of Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho.

Mourinho is looking to make more signings with the aim of strengthening the squad and returning it to the podium.

Although no official announcement has been made yet, the next few days could see Ibrahima Konate, Denzel Dumfries and Bernardo Silva join the Royals if there are no fluctuations in the last few hours.

According to Spanish newspaper AS, Mourinho is keen to sign an additional defender who is good at centre-back and full-back despite the end of deals for Konate and Dumfries.

Pair Yoshiko Guardiol and Ricardo Calafiore are the preferred options for the manager and the Real Madrid board, but the club are open to other options if talks to sign one of them from Manchester City and Arsenal fail.

Sky Sports Germany confirm Schloterbeck has not been forgotten by Real Madrid, as the Royals have been tracking the German defender for some time and have made him the third option on their list of possible future signings.

The player was asked about Real Madrid’s interest while he was currently in Germany’s World Cup camp.

“Borussia Dortmund” defender Schlotterbeck said. “Connection with Real Madrid”. Yes, of course we follow these things through the media, but mainly, as I said a few weeks ago, now all the attention is focused on the World Cup and the first game.”

Schloterbeck signed a new contract with the German club a few months ago but left the door open to leave by including a release clause allowing him to move to a club outside the German league for around €50m, heralding a long summer at the Real Madrid offices.