Liverpool could be set for major blow in pursuit of Bayern Munich star | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Defensive Plans Hit New Complications as Upamecano Talks Progress

Liverpool’s search for reinforcements at centre-back has encountered another obstacle, with Bayern Munich signalling their intention to secure Dayot Upamecano on fresh terms. It represents the latest twist in a turbulent period for the European champions, who continue to weigh up solutions following Jarell Quansah’s summer departure.

Bayern Munich move to protect Dayot Upamecano contract

Reports in Germany suggested that Liverpool had been monitoring Dayot Upamecano, viewing the Frenchman as a potential option should they seek to reshape their defensive structure. His contract is due to expire at the end of the season, prompting speculation that Premier League clubs could make an approach in January.

However, Bayern Munich’s sporting director Max Eberl has now indicated publicly that the Bundesliga side intend to hold on to the 26-year-old. Talks are ongoing, with the Bavarian club hopeful that their project and ambitions will be enough to convince Upamecano to extend his stay in Germany.

Such a development dents Liverpool’s hopes of landing what many had seen as a Guehi alternative. Arne Slot had been expected to revisit defensive targets after a demanding opening to his first season in charge, but Upamecano’s potential renewal reduces the pool of realistic opportunities.

Jarell Quansah departure leaves Liverpool light

The issue stems from the summer sale of Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen. The academy graduate had emerged as a reliable option last season, but the move to Germany left Liverpool with only Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Ibrahima Konate as senior centre-backs.

Further complications arrived when Giovanni Leoni, signed from Parma with the intention of being eased into the squad, suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury on debut. His long-term absence has left Slot with little margin for error as the Reds compete across four competitions.

Marc Guehi was expected to join on deadline day, but negotiations broke down late in the window. Without that deal, Liverpool’s reliance on their remaining trio has only increased, with concerns about depth never far from the surface.

Guehi alternative search grows narrower

Slot and his recruitment team had identified several possible solutions, with Guehi and Upamecano top of the list. Yet with Bayern now taking steps to tie down their French international, and Crystal Palace holding firm over Guehi’s value, Liverpool’s next move becomes more complex.

The club’s hierarchy are understood to be reluctant to pay inflated fees in January. Instead, they may attempt to ride out the season before re-entering the market in the summer, even with competition from Manchester City and Real Madrid expected for Guehi.

Such a stance brings risk, particularly given Konate’s own contract situation. The French defender’s deal runs down next summer, and his name has been consistently linked with Madrid. Losing one senior option while failing to add another could leave Slot’s project exposed at a crucial time.

Quansah buy-back clause under consideration

One longer-term solution lies in the buy-back clause inserted into Quansah’s move to Bayer Leverkusen. That option is not active until 2027, but Liverpool are thought to be exploring whether their positive relationship with the German club could accelerate his return.

Such a move would likely demand a considerable premium on the £51 million fee initially agreed, yet the 22-year-old’s progress in the Bundesliga may persuade the Anfield board that he is worth the outlay. For now, the matter remains hypothetical, though it is being discussed at the highest levels.

Liverpool’s defensive puzzle is far from resolved. With Dayot Upamecano potentially committing his future to Bayern Munich, Marc Guehi still beyond reach, and Jarell Quansah unavailable until at least 2027, Arne Slot faces a test of patience and planning as he seeks to maintain balance across his squad.