Schlotterbeck rejects World Cup "shop window" claims amid summer transfer talk

Borussia Dortmund fans were not pleased that a release clause for a select group of clubs this summer was included in Nico Schlotterbeck’s long-term contract signed in April

It has been suggested that the 26-year-old Germany international intends to use the World Cup as a “shop window”, positioning himself for a move to one of Europe’s top clubs, with Liverpool and Real Madrid reported to be among those able to activate the clause.

However, Schlotterbeck denies that this is his plan, insisting he simply wants to perform as well as possible to help Germany.

“What do you mean by shop window? I play 50 games a year. I think it’s completely normal that I always try to play well. To put yourself on display because of a World Cup – I don’t see it that way. Of course, I’m clearly focused on the World Cup, trying to play good matches there with Germany. So I don’t have the idea of playing extra well because of any contract," Schlotterbeck told Bild.

After signing his contract extension in April, Schlotterbeck faced criticism and boos from BVB fans, especially before, during and after the following game against Bayer Leverkusen. Reflecting on this, he said:

“I didn’t even notice the boos before the match because I wasn’t outside yet. During the match I didn’t notice it at all; I was only told about it afterwards. Of course, it wasn’t what I would have wished for," he admitted.

"Everyone is free to express what they want. It settled down in the last few matches. I played very good recent games. I’ve put it all behind me, I was happy to extend my contract and I’m now looking forward to playing a good World Cup with Germany.”