Liverpool are reportedly exploring a bold defensive reinforcement by targeting Bayern Munich centre-back Dayot Upamecano. With uncertainty clouding his contract status in Germany and a growing list of suitors, the French international has emerged as a potential statement signing for new manager Arne Slot. As contract talks in Bavaria stall, Liverpool are watching closely—and may be ready to strike.
Liverpool Monitor Upamecano Amid Contract Uncertainty
Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano is entering the final year of his contract, and negotiations over a renewal are dragging on. The situation has reportedly piqued the interest of several European giants, including Liverpool and Real Madrid, with the Reds actively assessing the market as part of their defensive rebuild.
Upamecano, 26, has yet to reach a breakthrough in talks with Bayern, despite public confirmation from sporting director Max Eberl that the club wants to keep him long-term. Speaking to Sky Sport Germany, Eberl confirmed, “We’re having open discussions, especially with Dayot Upamecano. It’s no big secret that we have a strong desire to extend his contract.”
Still, the delay is fueling speculation. According to BILD, Bayern manager Vincent Kompany is fully supportive of a renewal, but with no deal in place, top clubs are beginning to circle.
Slot and Liverpool Weigh Statement Defensive Signing
With Ibrahima Konate’s contract running until 2027, Liverpool are not in immediate need of replacing their French centre-back. However, new boss Arne Slot is reportedly open to bringing in high-profile competition and depth at the back—and Upamecano fits that profile.
German journalist Tobias Altschäffl confirmed on BILD TV that Liverpool have Upamecano on their radar. “The more time passes, the worse it is for Bayern,” Altschäffl noted. “Because the more time passes, the more clubs enter the race… and the more expensive it becomes.”
He also emphasized that the longer Bayern delay, the likelier it is that clubs like Liverpool and Real Madrid will increase their efforts to land the defender.
Guehi Interest Fizzled, But Defensive Search Continues
Earlier this summer, Liverpool were close to signing Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi for around £40 million. That move ultimately collapsed, as Palace failed to find a suitable replacement in time. Guehi is now set to become a free agent next summer and remains on the radar of both Bayern and Premier League clubs.
With Guehi’s future still unclear and Bayern’s interest complicating matters, Liverpool are wisely exploring alternatives. Upamecano, who boasts elite-level experience in the Bundesliga and Champions League, could be an ideal solution if contract talks in Munich break down.
Bayern Could Respond by Targeting Konate
In an interesting twist, Bayern Munich may turn their attention to Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate should Upamecano depart. The German champions were interested in Konate before his move from RB Leipzig to Anfield in 2021, and that interest may be reignited.
Transfer insider Christian Falk hinted at this possibility, stating, “Ibrahima Konate is obviously a player Bayern could target.” Should Upamecano leave on a free, Bayern may look to his former RB Leipzig teammate to reinforce their own backline.
