Liverpool’s search for defensive reinforcements could soon intensify after Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer confirmed that “talks are ongoing” over the future of French centre-back Dayot Upamecano — a player reportedly high on the Reds’ radar.
The 26-year-old’s contract with Bayern Munich expires at the end of the current season, meaning he’ll be eligible to sign a pre-contract agreement with clubs outside Germany from January. That situation has alerted several European heavyweights, including Liverpool and Real Madrid, both monitoring developments closely.
Upamecano, who joined Bayern from RB Leipzig in 2021, has been a cornerstone of the German champions’ backline for over four years. However, with his future uncertain, Hainer moved to reassure supporters that discussions are underway. Speaking via journalist Maximilian Koch, Hainer said: “The talks are ongoing. Max Eberl and Christoph Freund are leading them, and of course, I hope that Dayot will remain with us for a long time.”
Upamecano’s partnership with Kim Min-jae has earned praise from teammates, with Joshua Kimmich describing both defenders as “quick, smart, and very strong in duels.” Yet despite Bayern’s wish to retain him, uncertainty over his contract has inevitably drawn attention from rivals seeking top-level defensive experience.
Liverpool’s interest comes amid growing doubts about the future of Ibrahima Konaté — Upamecano’s compatriot and former France U21 teammate. Konaté, who is also in the final year of his deal, has yet to agree new terms at Anfield. Reports suggest the 25-year-old could be tempted by a move to Real Madrid as a free agent next summer.
Konaté’s performances this season have come under scrutiny, with manager Arne Slot urging calm despite recent errors. “If you lose a game of football, people focus on small moments,” Slot explained. “He’s made some mistakes, but he’s not alone.”
Liverpool had already attempted to strengthen their defensive line last summer with a move for Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi, only for the deal to collapse late on deadline day. The Reds eventually signed Parma’s Giovanni Leoni for £26 million, but the Italian’s dream debut turned into a nightmare after suffering an ACL injury, sidelining him for up to a year.
With Konaté’s future hanging in the balance and Upamecano’s contract running down, Liverpool could be poised for another high-profile transfer tussle — one that could shape the core of their defence for seasons to come.
