Konaté to replace Upamecano? Bayern chief Freund responds | OneFootball

Bayern defender Dayot Upamecano has recently been heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid. Ahead of the away match against Union Berlin, sporting director Christoph Freund spoke about the 27-year-old Frenchman and his current situation in Munich.

Upamecano, who has been one of the absolute key players under Vincent Kompany this season, only has a contract until the summer of 2026. It is no secret that Bayern are determined to keep the Frenchman. Other top clubs have also taken notice of the center-back. Upamecano is said to be very high on Real Madrid’s wish list in particular.

At Säbener Straße, they are well aware of this, but are not panicking: “It’s no secret that our big goal is to extend with Upamecano,” said Freund at the matchday press conference ahead of the Bundesliga clash with Union Berlin. “It’s also not surprising that many clubs are interested in Upamecano, because he’s simply performing really, really well, he’s a great guy, and one of the best center-backs in the world.”

“He feels very, very comfortable” – but no agreement in sight

Freund emphasized that the defensive leader feels extremely comfortable in Munich—and that this is also visible: “You can see how he moves on the pitch, the energy he radiates. He feels very, very comfortable.”

According to information from Sky, the club and the player have come closer together in negotiations in recent days. However, a quick agreement does not appear to be expected: “We are in talks, but there is currently nothing new to report.”

Freund did not want to comment on rumors that FC Bayern already has a possible successor in mind—including Ibrahima Konaté from Liverpool being mentioned: “We are really totally focused on our current players.”

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.