While several clubs are looking for a central defender and the number of high-level defenders available for free is limited, the Merengues seem to be positioning themselves for Dayot Upamecano.
The France international is out of contract next year and, despite repeated public assurances from Bayern sporting director Max Eberl and president Herbert Hainer that they are optimistic about an extension, nothing is certain yet. Recently, Madrid sources indicated that Upamecano was Bayern’s preferred choice ahead of Ibrahima Konaté, but that his desire to join the Bavarian club remained uncertain.
Real Madrid among three clubs vying for Upamecano
According to Bayern specialist Christian Falk, the Merengues are one of the three clubs still in the running. Liverpool have withdrawn from the race, now focusing on Marc Guehi. Bayern are clearly hoping to extend Upamecano’s contract, and the relationship he has with his coach, Vincent Kompany, could be instrumental in their decision.
Paris Saint-Germain are hoping to sign another French international and are benefiting from the appeal of their home country, while Real Madrid are said to be very interested in Upamecano.
The future of Ibrahima Konaté soon to be decided.
Regarding Konaté, Liverpool want a quick decision from him, as the club could look to sell him during the winter transfer window to avoid losing him for free. Bayern Munich are also ready to compete with Real Madrid and the Reds for Konaté if Upamecano were to leave. However, if the Merengues reach an agreement with Upamecano, they could well lose interest in Konaté.
Upamecano could be the trigger for a chain reaction among other clubs. Real Madrid currently have Raul Asencio, Dean Huijsen and Eder Militao under contract for a period of time, but David Alaba is expected to leave and Antonio Rüdiger’s future is uncertain.
