Liverpool Weigh Move for Dayot Upamecano as Defensive Concerns Grow

Liverpool are exploring defensive reinforcements with Bayern Munich centre-back Dayot Upamecano emerging as a leading candidate. Sources in Germany suggest the 26-year-old could be available on a free transfer next summer, attracting attention from several European giants, including Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Paris Saint-Germain.

Defensive worries mount at Anfield

The urgency stems from two pressing concerns. Firstly, summer arrival Giovani Leoni has suffered a devastating ACL injury, sidelining him for the majority of the campaign. Secondly, uncertainty surrounds the future of Ibrahima Konate, who enters the final year of his contract at Anfield with interest gathering from Spain and beyond.

Manager Arne Slot is understood to be assessing long-term solutions. Upamecano, whose contract discussions with Bayern have stalled despite months of negotiations, has been identified as a player capable of stepping in should Konate depart.

Upamecano’s situation at Bayern

Bayern are eager to secure Upamecano to fresh terms, but progress has been slow. Talks have been ongoing for close to a year, and with no resolution in sight, rival clubs are circling.

“Liverpool are monitoring the situation closely. Bayern have tried to renew his deal for months, but time is running out,” reported one Bundesliga insider. With the French international potentially available on a free next summer, the market appeal is obvious.

That attractiveness is heightened by the competition. Manchester United see Upamecano as a possible defensive cornerstone under Ruben Amorim, while Real Madrid continue to consider their options amid an evolving backline. PSG, too, are attentive to developments.

Guehi remains firmly on Liverpool’s radar

While Upamecano’s name leads the conversation, Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace remains high on Liverpool’s shortlist. The England international was the subject of intense negotiations in the summer, with a £35 million deal close to completion before Palace withdrew due to difficulties sourcing a replacement.

At 25, Guehi fits the profile Liverpool have long admired: athletic, composed, and already experienced in the Premier League. His own contract is due to expire at the end of the season, leaving Liverpool with the possibility of returning in January or waiting until the summer to pursue a free transfer.

Slot’s hierarchy may be forced to choose between two premium options – Guehi or Upamecano – both of whom would represent significant coups if secured without a transfer fee.

Wider recruitment considerations

Liverpool’s scouting network continues to cast a wide net beyond defensive reinforcements. Genk’s 17-year-old midfielder Konstantinos Karetsas has been attracting attention, with reports indicating Liverpool are one of five Premier League sides monitoring his progress.

In addition, interest persists in Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise, who remains valued at over €100m. While Manchester City are also following developments, Liverpool’s priority remains clear: solidifying their defensive line in light of Leoni’s injury and Konate’s unresolved contract.

For now, the Anfield hierarchy are weighing their options carefully, knowing that the opportunity to bring in Upamecano or Guehi without an upfront fee could prove decisive in shaping the next phase of Slot’s rebuild.