Upamecano saga: Are Bayern repeating their Alaba mistake? | OneFootball

The future of Dayot Upamecano at FC Bayern remains uncertain. The French center-back's contract expires at the end of the season, and the talks about an extension are proving difficult. According to a report by Sport BILD, the issue of a signing bonus could become the decisive hurdle – a scenario the Bayern bosses are keen to avoid.

The 26-year-old has been under contract with the German record champions since the summer of 2021 and is considered one of the most consistent defenders under Vincent Kompany. Nevertheless, it is still unclear whether and under what conditions Upamecano will be tied to the club long-term. The current contract runs until the summer of 2026, and an extension has been on the table for months – but the details are proving problematic.

Alaba as a Reminder: Bayern Wants to Avoid Repeating Mistakes

Photo: IMAGO

As reported by Sport BILD, the case of David Alaba serves as a cautionary tale at Säbener Straße. FC Bayern had refused to meet the financial demands of the Austrian back then – and eventually lost him on a free transfer to Real Madrid. The loss of the then-defensive chief could not be compensated by Bayern for years.

A similar scenario is something they desperately want to avoid in Upamecano's case. However, the negotiations over the new contract are complicated. Particularly, the signing bonus is a point of contention.

During Alphonso Davies' contract extension, the Canadian reportedly received around 20 million euros as a signing bonus at the beginning of the year. This amount has now become the "benchmark and problem" for Upamecano. The defender and his management are apparently demanding similar recognition.

Salary, Signing Bonus, Agent Fee – A Difficult Trio

According to BILD, Upamecano and his agents have already presented FC Bayern with a concrete offer outlining their expectations. Currently, the Frenchman is said to earn around 16 million euros annually, including bonuses. In the future, this amount could become the fixed base salary – which would equate to a significant salary increase.

Besides the salary, the agent fee is also up for debate. Specific figures are not yet known.

Within the club leadership, including Jan-Christian Dreesen, Max Eberl, and Christoph Freund, there is consensus that they do not want to break financial boundaries. At the same time, it is clear: A free transfer departure like Alaba's would be a severe setback – both athletically and economically.

Top Clubs Eyeing a Free Transfer Deal

While Bayern is still negotiating, interest from abroad is growing. According to BILD football chief Christian Falk, clubs such as FC Liverpool, Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Inter Milan have set their sights on Upamecano.

Whether FC Bayern is willing to push the limits in this matter remains to be seen. However, it is clear: The center-back is highly sought after in Europe – and Munich must act if they want to prevent a second "Alaba debacle."

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