Liverpool and Real Madrid Strike Gold as Star Player Opens Door to Blockbuster Free Transfer
Liverpool and Real Madrid are intensifying their pursuit of Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano as his contract situation becomes increasingly precarious, according to recent reports.
With Upamecano entering the final six months of his current deal, several top-tier clubs have taken notice. Liverpool have long been interested in the defender, particularly as they navigate uncertain contract discussions with Ibrahima Konaté, while Real Madrid view Upamecano as a viable backup option to their primary target Konaté.
Bayern officials have openly expressed their intention to keep Upamecano, but recent suggestions of advancement in renewal discussions have been refuted by Christian Falk.
Although both sides appear to have reached a general understanding regarding wages, the main sticking point centers on a signing bonus. Fullback Alphonso Davies reportedly received approximately €20 million (£17.4 million, $23.2 million) to reject Madrid's advances and extend his stay last season, and Upamecano is seeking comparable compensation.
The gap between the two parties is described as "very, very big", with Upamecano recognizing that a free transfer elsewhere would likely guarantee a substantial signing bonus that Bayern cannot compete with.
Florian Plettenberg reports that Upamecano remains firm on his current requirements, which presently exceed Bayern's budget. The French defender has allegedly informed his club that he's prepared to leave next summer unless his conditions are satisfied.
Liverpool, Real Madrid Starting to Circle for Upamecano
"Elite clubs" are beginning to position themselves for Upamecano, who becomes eligible to negotiate international free transfers starting in January.
Liverpool are explicitly mentioned by both German journalists, while Fabrizio Romano identifies the Merseyside club alongside Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain as potential destinations.
Formal contact has been established with Upamecano's agents who, despite being receptive to all opportunities, intend to resume talks with Bayern in the near future. The France international is content in Munich and would welcome staying if his financial expectations are fulfilled.
Upamecano and Konaté, who previously played together at RB Leipzig, represent just two of numerous defenders potentially changing clubs this summer. Crystal Palace's Marc Guéhi is another player attracting attention from Europe's top teams, including both Liverpool and Madrid.
Players departing on free transfers typically command substantial signing bonuses, as clubs frequently share the savings from avoided transfer fees with their new acquisitions.