Rudiger urges Real Madrid to push for Nico Schlotterbeck despite Konate’s arrival

Real Madrid centre-back Antonio Rudiger has praised Nico Schlotterbeck, effectively giving them the green light to push for a move.

Madrid recently announced the addition of Ibrahima Konate on a free transfer following his departure from Liverpool this summer.

However, they’re still in the market for further reinforcements and have been linked with Schlotterbeck.

The Borussia Dortmund centre-back is currently representing Germany at the World Cup, and he was given the nod in the 4-1 demolition of continental minnows Curacao.

Schlotterbeck repaid Julian Nagelsmann’s faith by scoring his first international goal for Germany.

Rudiger started the game on the bench but was introduced in the second half, coming on as a 73rd-minute substitute for Jonathan Tah.

After seeing out the game in a centre-back partnership with Schlotterbeck, the Madrid defender has urged his current employers to push for his international teammate this summer.

“Nico [Schlotterbeck] has always been a threat, especially on set pieces,” Rudiger said (via Mundo Deportivo). 

“He’s aggressive, always involved in duels, and his build-up play is exceptional. His left foot is a marvel.”

When pressed on rumours linking Schlotterbeck with a move to Madrid this summer, Rudiger added: “Good players are always welcome. But I don’t want to say much more about it. I would be delighted.”

Rudiger is expected to anchor Madrid’s defence alongside Konate next season following the sensational return of manager Jose Mourinho.

Bringing in Schlotterbeck could shake up that arrangement, forcing Rudiger to fight for his place in the team, but he doesn’t seem phased by that possibility. 

Schlotterbeck is considered one of the best defenders in Europe, and a player of his experience and profile would be a massive addition for Madrid.

He helped Dortmund finish second in the Bundesliga last season, notching five goals and two assists in 28 Bundesliga games.