Man United ‘interested’ in move to sign Bayern Munich star – Report | OneFootball

Manchester United Eye Dayot Upamecano Amid Contract Standstill at Bayern

Manchester United’s centre back search appears to have found a new priority target. According to Foot Mercato, Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano has entered a crucial stage of his career as contract talks in Bavaria continue to stall. With his current deal expiring in June 2026 and uncertainty creeping in, major European clubs are circling, United among the most attentive.

Contract Dispute Creating Opportunity

Foot Mercato report that negotiations between Bayern and the Frenchman’s representatives have slowed due to a disagreement over renewal terms. Bayern president Herbert Hainer has publicly stated his desire to keep the player, insisting, “Negotiations are continuing to extend his lease. Of course, we would like him to stay with us for a long time.” However, the situation remains unresolved and the longer it drags on, the more likely Bayern risk losing a valuable asset at a reduced price or potentially for free.

Upamecano’s 2025 is already one to remember. He recently married, lifted both the Bundesliga and German Super Cup, and featured regularly for Didier Deschamps’ France squad. On the pitch this season he has made eight starts out of nine appearances, clocking 669 minutes, a reminder that he is still considered essential in Munich. Yet his future appears open and Foot Mercato state that “the defender does not rule out any option for his future, not even that of staying in Munich.”

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Spain Watching Closely but United Lurking

The same report reveals that Real Madrid and Barcelona are the most active in the race, with both Spanish giants planning ahead. Madrid are preparing for life after Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba, while Barcelona are aggressively positioning to secure him early. Foot Mercato describe the scenario as “a new Clasico likely to be played out on the field of the transfer window, with Dayot Upamecano as referee.”

However, England is firmly in the picture. “In England, several teams are following his case with interest, including Manchester United.” That line alone will intrigue supporters at Old Trafford who have long called for a dominant, proactive central defender capable of leading a high line.

Why Upamecano Fits Ruben Amorim’s Vision

Under Ruben Amorim, United have adopted a more aggressive, front-foot defensive approach. That setup demands pace, anticipation and aerial authority in the back line. Upamecano offers exactly that profile. At 26, he has Champions League pedigree, leadership experience and a playing style that thrives in duels.

One source close to United recruitment might well say: “If there is a top centre back available with Champions League-level experience, we will explore it.” For United, the prospect of securing a France international nearing his prime without an excessive transfer fee is difficult to ignore.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Manchester United supporters will immediately latch onto this rumour with optimism. The club have lacked true stability at centre back for years and while Lisandro Martínez has been excellent when fit, his availability cannot be guaranteed. Dayot Upamecano arriving next summer, potentially on reduced terms due to his contract situation, would represent smart, pragmatic business.

Ruben Amorim is now into his second season and has already reshaped several areas of the squad, yet central defence remains unfinished. Some fans may wonder whether Upamecano’s occasional lapses in high-pressure games should be a concern, particularly given the scrutiny that comes with playing at Old Trafford. However, his athletic profile, leadership qualities and experience in elite dressing rooms outweigh those doubts.

There will be competition from Spain but United can offer something Barcelona and Real Madrid perhaps cannot right now: a guaranteed starting role and the chance to become the dominant defensive figure in a rebuild under an ambitious manager.

The transfer window saga is only just beginning, yet this one already feels like one to monitor closely.