Confidence and nervousness are currently dangerously close to each other at FC Bayern. The contract poker surrounding Dayot Upamecano is developing into one of the most important personnel issues of the coming months – and according to the latest reports, the French international has now made his first move.
While talks with the German record champions continue, Upamecano has apparently decided which clubs he sees a future with.
FC Bayern have been negotiating an extension with their defender for months, with Upamecano deliberately keeping a low profile. „We’re discussing it with Bayern. We’ll see what happens. I can say that a hundred times. We’ll discuss it and see what happens,“ explained the 27-year-old after the 6-2 win over SC Freiburg.
What is particularly exciting is his clear rejection of rumours about alleged salary demands. „It’s not about the money. We’re talking to Max and Christoph. I’m concentrating on the season with our team and I’m happy here,“ he made clear, contradicting a number of earlier media reports – and at the same time signalling that his decision depends on other factors.
Liverpool drop out – Real and PSG move into focus
A report from BILD’s head of soccer Christian Falk has caused a new stir, according to which Liverpool FC, who have long been rumoured to be interested, are out of the running. „It’s not good news for Liverpool! We’ve heard that there are only three clubs in Upamecano’s head: Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain. No Premier League clubs,“ explains the transfer insider.
This narrows the field of possible options – and also the pressure. Upamecano’s contract expires in the summer of 2026. If he does not extend, FC Bayern would face the unpleasant risk of losing him on a free transfer. Real Madrid and PSG are therefore waiting carefully until the poker becomes more concrete.
Real Madrid are facing a major shake-up in defence. According to Falk, talks are planned with Antonio Rüdiger, while David Alaba could become a free agent in the summer. The Whites are already scouting the market and see Upamecano as a player who would fit perfectly into their long-term defence.
The Bayern professional would also be far more than just a reinforcement at PSG. The Parisians continue to pursue a clear course: to build a team with a strong French core. Upamecano, who trained in France and is internationally established, would fit perfectly into this concept.
Kompany as Bayern’s trump card
Despite the international competition, Falk does not believe that FC Bayern is without a chance – on the contrary. One decisive factor is coach Vincent Kompany. Upamecano is considered a great admirer of the Belgian, who has full confidence in him and gives him a central role in his team. „That is the big chance for Bayern in this poker game,“ emphasizes Falk.
And this is exactly where the record champions come in. Upamecano feels comfortable, is playing a strong season and is set to play under Kompany. Those responsible hope that this environment will ultimately have a stronger effect than international attractions or lucrative offers.