Real Madrid and Liverpool Battle for Upamecano as Konate Faces Uncertain Future
As the summer of 2026 approaches, Europe’s elite are bracing for a potential defensive reshuffle — and at the heart of it all sits Dayot Upamecano. The Bayern Munich centre-back is entering the final months of his contract, and both Real Madrid and Liverpool have been tracking his situation closely. Reports in France claimed that Madrid had already reached a verbal agreement with the French international, but those suggestions have now been firmly denied.
Upamecano’s Future Sparks European Interest
Upamecano, now 27, has been one of Bayern Munich’s most consistent performers since arriving from RB Leipzig in 2021. However, with his current deal set to expire next summer, discussions over a renewal have yet to produce a breakthrough. That uncertainty has alerted several of Europe’s top clubs, with Real Madrid, Liverpool, and Paris Saint-Germain all exploring possible moves.
Sources close to the situation indicate that Bayern remain keen to retain the defender. Vincent Kompany, who has been granted significant influence in squad planning since taking charge, is understood to have personally intervened in an effort to convince Upamecano to extend his stay at the Allianz Arena. Bayern’s leadership views him as a cornerstone of their next defensive cycle, though they are aware of the financial pull Madrid and Premier League clubs can offer.
Real Madrid’s Defensive Rebuild
Real Madrid’s need for a new centre-back is clear. Both David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger are nearing the end of their contracts in 2026, leaving Los Blancos with a major decision to make. Club officials have reportedly held informal talks with Upamecano’s representatives, yet no agreement or pre-contract is currently in place.
Madrid are evaluating several defensive options, including Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate. The Frenchman’s contract at Anfield expires at the end of the season, and while Liverpool’s hierarchy remain hopeful of securing an extension, no deal has been finalised. Should Konate choose not to renew, Real Madrid could view him as an ideal candidate to bolster their back line — particularly given his age, physical profile, and Champions League experience.
Liverpool’s Perspective and Contract Tensions
For Liverpool, the situation presents a delicate balancing act. Arne Slot has made clear his admiration for Konate, seeing him as central to his defensive structure alongside Virgil van Dijk’s eventual successor. Yet the uncertainty surrounding Konate’s future has forced sporting director Richard Hughes to assess contingency plans — with Upamecano featuring prominently among them.
Anfield sources believe Liverpool’s long-term project, Champions League status, and the club’s renewed tactical direction under Slot could appeal to Upamecano. The Frenchman’s pace, composure, and ball-playing ability would suit the modern defensive demands at Liverpool. However, Bayern’s ongoing negotiations and Madrid’s historic appeal ensure competition remains fierce.
Bayern Still Fighting to Retain Their Defender
Despite widespread speculation, Bayern Munich are not ready to concede defeat. Meetings between club officials and Upamecano’s representatives have continued in recent weeks, with both parties open to further discussions. Kompany’s involvement in talks reflects Bayern’s intent to build their next era around proven leaders — and losing Upamecano on a free transfer would represent both a sporting and financial setback.
For now, Real Madrid are monitoring developments while maintaining contact with Konate’s camp. Liverpool, meanwhile, are fighting to secure both stability and ambition in their defensive plans. The coming months promise a complex tug-of-war involving three of Europe’s most powerful institutions — with Upamecano’s decision likely to shape the market for centre-backs in 2026.
