Liverpool Explore Upamecano Opportunity As Defensive Concerns Grow
Liverpool’s season has veered into turbulence after six defeats in seven matches, a run that has sharpened the focus on structural issues in Arne Slot’s squad. Defensive uncertainty has become the headline concern, particularly at centre-back, where depth has been stretched and long term planning now dominates internal conversations. Credit to Fichajes for the original reporting.
Defensive Puzzle After Summer Changes
Liverpool reshaped their back line during the summer. Jarell Quansah departed and Giovanni Leoni arrived for £26m from Parma. The promising Italian’s cruel ACL injury on debut, however, left the Reds with only three senior specialists, Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez.
Slot has already felt the squeeze. An EFL Cup loss to Crystal Palace, where Andy Robertson partnered Gomez, underscored the precarious nature of the situation. With Aston Villa, Real Madrid and Manchester City approaching before the international break, this area cannot remain in limbo.
Contract situations complicate matters. Konate is out of contract in 2026 and talks have not progressed as swiftly as hoped. Van Dijk’s deal runs until 2027, while Gomez’s longer term future is also undecided. These timelines, coupled with immediate squad needs, explain why Liverpool are surveying the market.
High Level Targets On Recruitment Radar
Reports have linked Liverpool with Micky van de Ven, Ronald Araujo and Nico Schlotterbeck, illustrating intent to retain elite defensive standards. The club also missed out on Marc Guehi in the summer, and that pursuit could reignite, albeit with increased competition.
There is also an eye on value. A free transfer solution is actively being explored and one name stands out.
Talks With Upamecano Begin
Fichajes report that Liverpool and Chelsea have already initiated contact for Dayot Upamecano, whose Bayern Munich contract expires in 2026. Negotiations between the France international and Bayern remain apart, opening a potential window for Premier League clubs to step forward.
“Chelsea and Liverpool have already held talks to anticipate Upamecano’s free transfer,” reports Fichajes.
Bayern reportedly fear strong interest from Liverpool, particularly given the defender’s age, profile and experience at the elite level. Upamecano, 26, offers athletic presence, pace and ball playing composure that aligns with Liverpool’s evolving defensive style under Slot.
Strategic Sense For Liverpool
This interest does not arrive in isolation. Liverpool require investment in defence, both in the short term and with an eye beyond Van Dijk’s eventual succession. If the club move decisively and establish early terms, they could position themselves favourably against rivals. With January and next summer’s window looming, clarity and commitment will be essential.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
Liverpool supporters watching the defensive situation unfold will feel a mix of concern and opportunity. Six defeats in seven matches would rattle any fanbase, particularly when defensive strain lies at the core. Losing Leoni before he even settled felt like a gut punch, and the sight of Robertson at centre-back in a knockout tie only amplified the unease.
The idea of Upamecano arriving naturally sparks interest. He has the athletic profile Liverpool lean towards, he is experienced at Champions League level and still has room to grow. If Slot wants dynamism and authority alongside Van Dijk or as a long term successor structure, this move makes sense. The reported groundwork with intermediaries suggests Liverpool are sharpening their position early, and supporters will appreciate proactive planning.
There is, however, the lingering question of Konate’s future. Many fans see him as a cornerstone for the next era. If his contract starts to drag, and Upamecano becomes a serious option, some will read that as contingency rather than competition. That is not negative planning, but it does feel like a potential crossroads moment for the French pair.
Ultimately, Liverpool need numbers and they need quality. Guehi, Van de Ven and Araujo being on the list shows ambition. Upamecano would be an exciting addition, especially if secured as a value driven signature. If Slot and the recruitment team get this right, they reinforce the title winning foundations that carried his debut season.
