Alaba as role model: Real tempt Bayern star Upamecano with top contract | OneFootball

Negotiations between FC Bayern and Dayot Upamecano appear to be stalling, which is likely arousing interest from Real Madrid.

According to Sport BILD, Real Madrid is working on signing the central defender on a free transfer in the summer of 2026.

The Royals are resorting to a strategy that was already successful with David Alaba: a high-paying contract as a lure as soon as the player is available for free.

The situation between Bayern and Upamecano is currently complicated. Although the 26-year-old had emphasized a few weeks ago: "I am totally satisfied here. There are now talks with Max, Christoph, and my agent. Let's see what happens." Sporting director Max Eberl also stated: "He is definitely one of the players we want to extend." But currently, the talks seem to be on hold.

Upamecano's contract expires in 2026

The reason: Upamecano is demanding, according to L’Équipe, a higher salary than the previously rumored 16 million euros per year and the inclusion of a release clause in the new contract. The Bayern bosses are hesitant to meet him on these points. The player's position is clear according to Sport BILD - without additional "concessions", an agreement will hardly be possible.

This is exactly where Real Madrid comes in. The Spaniards have had Upamecano in their sights for some time and are planning a gradual squad overhaul with coach Xabi Alonso. In Bernabéu, they know the game of patience: Real waited for Alaba until a free transfer could be realized, and then rewarded the Austrian with a top contract. A similar scenario now threatens with Upamecano.

The Frenchman is under contract with FC Bayern until 2026, moved from RB Leipzig to Munich in 2021 for 42.5 million euros, and is a regular in the central defense under Vincent Kompany.

However, if an agreement on an extension is not reached soon, the record champions could once again risk losing a key player to Real Madrid on a free transfer - this time following the "Alaba 2.0" pattern.

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