World Cup injury setback leaves Nico Schlotterbeck deal in doubt

Liverpool’s recruitment plans have hit a complicated snag after the Borussia Dortmund centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck, who has been heavily-linked with a summer switch to Anfield to patch up a depleted defensive line, was forced off with a serious injury during Germany’s World Cup match against the Ivory Coast.

Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann issued a worrying post-match update, confirming the 26-year-old defender suffered a potential ligament injury after just 15 minutes of play.

“Nico is suspected to have sustained a ligament injury. It’s not looking good,” he said.

Schlotterbeck managed to bravely battle through to half-time before being withdrawn for Antonio Rudiger.

With the medical team stating that the diagnosis is not looking good, Liverpool may be forced to look elsewhere for defensive reinforcements this summer.