Chelsea set to battle Liverpool in the race to sign Bayern Munich star – Report | OneFootball

Chelsea Could Play Transfer Poker Perfectly With Upamecano

Chelsea’s recruitment strategy under Enzo Maresca has been quietly evolving, and the latest link with Bayern Munich’s Dayot Upamecano could represent both shrewd business and perfect timing. As Football London report, the Blues “could save £52million if they hold off on signing Dayot Upamecano until next summer.”

With the Frenchman’s current deal at the Allianz Arena expiring at the end of this season, Bayern’s negotiation table is beginning to look increasingly tense. Bild describe the situation as a “poker game” between club and player, with Bayern eager to extend his stay but facing little progress.

Upamecano’s Commitment Amid Contract Talks

Upamecano has tried to maintain calm around the speculation, saying, “I feel comfortable here and am happy to work with a very good coach and great players. My agent is talking with the people in charge at Bayern. The talks are ongoing. There’s nothing more to say. We’ll see what happens.”

That assurance may sound diplomatic, but history suggests that when a player enters the final year of his contract without resolution, the power shifts towards the suitors. Chelsea, Liverpool, Real Madrid and Inter Milan are all reportedly circling, each with their own agenda for defensive reinforcements.

Liverpool’s interest, according to Football London, stems from their failed move for Marc Guehi on deadline day, leaving Arne Slot keen to add proven quality at the back. Yet, with Maresca also looking for stability in his defensive line, Stamford Bridge could present the ideal destination if the player is tempted by a free transfer in 2026.

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Financial Patience Could Pay Off

Chelsea’s spending under Maresca has already seen the arrivals of Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Jamie Gittens and Alejandro Garnacho, signalling a commitment to youth and long-term planning. However, as injuries have bitten into the squad — with Benoit Badiashile, Levi Colwill and Malo Gusto all sidelined — the need for an elite central defender is clear.

Waiting until next summer to secure Upamecano on a free would not only demonstrate financial prudence, it would also align with the club’s new recruitment philosophy. While the short-term temptation to buy in January remains, patience could save millions and avoid the bidding war that often defines mid-season windows.

Risk and Reward in Chelsea’s Pursuit

There remains, however, the inherent risk that Bayern could find resolution or another club could make an irresistible offer in January. Football London note that “Bayern may be tempted to cash in come January if they are unable to tie him down,” meaning Chelsea must decide whether to gamble on time or act decisively.

With Maresca’s system dependent on composure and technical quality from his defenders, Upamecano’s profile fits the mould perfectly. His ability to step into midfield and distribute confidently would complement Chelsea’s possession-based approach, making him an ideal long-term partner for Colwill once fit.

In the current transfer landscape, this move represents the blend of strategy, patience and opportunity that separates the top operators from the rest.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Chelsea supporter’s perspective, this story feels like a classic example of timing and ambition. Dayot Upamecano is precisely the sort of commanding, modern defender who would thrive under Enzo Maresca. His mix of athleticism, leadership and experience at Bayern would instantly elevate a young backline that has struggled for continuity.

The idea of saving £52million by waiting until the summer is attractive, especially after several years of heavy investment. Yet, there’s also a lingering fear that patience could cost Chelsea the player entirely. Liverpool, under Arne Slot, are aggressive and tactically coherent. If they move early, they could easily convince Upamecano with the promise of stability and Champions League football.

Chelsea fans have learned that transfer strategy under Maresca is deliberate, and his backing of younger players shows a long-term plan. Still, with injuries mounting and defensive frailties exposed, many would argue that January could be the perfect moment to act boldly.

If Chelsea manage to pull this off next summer, it could be one of the most calculated deals of the Maresca era. If they hesitate too long, though, it might join a growing list of near-misses.