Liverpool Face £125m Transfer Clause to Sign French Star – Report | OneFootball

Upamecano’s £125m Clause and Liverpool’s Defensive Puzzle

Liverpool’s pursuit of defensive reinforcements has taken an intriguing twist as Bayern Munich’s Dayot Upamecano reportedly sets his sights on a staggering £125million release clause while demanding a salary on par with Bayern stalwarts Joshua Kimmich and Jamal Musiala. According to TeamTalk, these negotiations could become a stumbling block for Bayern and open the door for Liverpool and Real Madrid to make their move.

Arne Slot, fresh off his debut-season Premier League triumph, alongside sporting director Richard Hughes, is said to be weighing Upamecano as part of Liverpool’s long-term succession plan. With Ibrahima Konate’s contract set to expire next summer and Virgil van Dijk now 34, the champions are understandably planning ahead.

“We’re having open discussions, especially with Dayot Upamecano. It’s no big secret that we have a strong desire to extend his contract,” Bayern sporting director Max Eberl told SkySport.

Liverpool’s Centre-Back Conundrum

While Liverpool added teenage defender Giovanni Leoni from Parma this summer, his long-term injury has accelerated the need for reinforcements. The Reds have already shown concrete interest in Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, with TeamTalk’s Fraser Fletcher reporting that Guehi was close to a last-minute move to Anfield during the summer window.

Upamecano’s availability as a potential free agent makes him an attractive proposition. His pedigree cannot be questioned: 159 appearances for Bayern, three Bundesliga titles and a UEFA Nations League triumph with France in 2021. His physicality and reading of the game have drawn praise in the past. Former Liverpool striker Peter Crouch told talkSPORT back in 2021:

“Upamecano is a top centre-half, I think he’s one of the best in Europe. He’s the best one out there if they can possibly get him.”

Contract Demands That Raise Eyebrows

Sports Boom recently revealed that Upamecano is seeking not just a hefty pay rise but also a £125million release clause. Such terms could prove problematic for Bayern, who remain keen to retain him, but also for any suitor hoping to negotiate a more affordable deal.

Real Madrid’s interest complicates matters further. Liverpool have a history of going toe-to-toe with the Spanish giants for high-profile players, but competition is likely to drive the price and salary package up.

Defensive Future at Anfield

Slot’s strategy since arriving at Anfield has been decisive. Winning the Premier League at the first attempt means expectations are sky-high. However, with Konate’s future uncertain and Van Dijk entering the twilight of his career, a marquee defensive addition feels inevitable. Guehi and Upamecano represent two very different profiles: Guehi is Premier League-proven, while Upamecano has continental pedigree and experience at the highest level.

Whatever the outcome, it seems Liverpool will not be short of options. But the coming months could determine whether Upamecano becomes part of Slot’s evolving Liverpool project or stays put in Munich.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This report sparks both excitement and caution. Upamecano’s quality is undeniable; he combines physical dominance with pace and experience that would complement Liverpool’s high line. At 26, he could offer five or six prime years, which is ideal given the club’s need for succession planning at centre-back.

The concern lies in the financials. A £125million release clause feels inflated for a player who could soon be available for free if no agreement is reached with Bayern. Fans will wonder whether such a significant outlay makes sense when other targets like Marc Guehi, who already knows the Premier League, might be more cost-effective and culturally settled.

Slot’s recent success has shown that Liverpool can identify the right pieces at the right time. While Upamecano’s arrival would be a statement signing, it should not come at the expense of the club’s balanced wage structure. Given that Guehi remains out of contract next summer and that Konate’s situation is unresolved, prioritising negotiations with Guehi might prove the smarter route unless Upamecano adjusts his demands.

There is also the intangible factor of mentality. Upamecano has excelled in Germany but has faced criticism in some high-profile European fixtures. Liverpool fans will rightly ask whether he has the resilience required for the Premier League’s relentless intensity.

Ultimately, this saga feels like one to watch closely as the January window approaches. The battle with Real Madrid for Upamecano’s signature could be fascinating, but many Liverpool supporters might argue that pragmatism should guide the club’s next big defensive signing.