Real Madrid reach verbal agreement with Bundesliga defender; Liverpool ace no longer a priority | OneFootball

In a major development, Santi Aouna of Foot Mercato reports that Real Madrid have reached a verbal agreement with Bayern Munich and France defender Dayot Upamecano.

The Merengues have been on the lookout for an established defender for the summer of 2026, with Upamecano emerging as a target, along with his compatriot Ibrahima Konate of Liverpool.

Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace was also on the radars, but has now been ruled out due to his financial demands.

Upamecano close to Real Madrid

Now, as per the aforementioned report, Real Madrid have moved for Upamecano and have a verbal agreement in place with the 27-year-old centre-back.

His profile, experience, and the fact that he will be available on a free transfer make him the ideal candidate in the eyes of the club’s leadership.

Upamecano on his way to Madrid? (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

Upamecano also has the advantage of already knowing several of the French players at Real Madrid. Manager Xabi Alonso, who crossed paths with him in the Bundesliga, knows him well too.

Upamecano is also being closely monitored by PSG, and has a contract extension offer from Bayern Munich as well. But it seems like the Frenchman is leaning towards a move to the Santiago Bernabeu.

Konate no longer a priority

Up until now, Real Madrid had identified Liverpool’s Konate as their priority target to reinforce the defence. However, this is no longer the case.

The Liverpool star, who has a contract proposal from the Premier League champions is willing to join the Spanish giants. And, while his option has not been ruled out by the club, it is no longer the priority at this stage.

Instead, Real Madrid have made Upamecano as their top target and are pressing ahead with his signing.