Good news for Bayern: Upamecano only Real Madrid’s plan B | OneFootball

Relief at Säbener Straße: While the future of Dayot Upamecano had recently caused concern among Bayern’s bosses, Real Madrid’s priorities now seem to be clearly shifting in another direction.

According to the Spanish portal DefensaCentral, Upamecano is still on the radar of Los Blancos, but the main focus in Madrid is on Ibrahima Konaté from Liverpool FC. The French international is reportedly the preferred solution for both chief scout Juni Calafat and coach Xabi Alonso for the central defense. The report even goes so far as to claim: “Unless something unusual happens in the coming months, Konaté will become a Real Madrid player.”

This development could be of enormous significance for Bayern. Upamecano’s contract runs until summer 2026, and negotiations over an extension have so far proven difficult. An intensive pursuit by Real would have further strengthened the center-back’s position in the talks. Now, however, the pressure seems to have eased, as Upamecano is currently considered more of a Plan B—alongside Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace.

Bayern plans new talks

Photo: IMAGO

In Madrid, preparations are underway for a major shake-up in defense. Antonio Rüdiger and former Bayern star David Alaba are expected to leave the club when their contracts expire in 2026. Nevertheless, the focus is clearly on Konaté, who himself is said to have realized that a change of scenery is imminent—despite his status as a key player at Liverpool FC.

For the German record champions, this is a sign of relief. Upamecano remains a candidate for Los Blancos, but the likelihood that Real will make a serious move for him has diminished. This increases the chances that Bayern can secure their key player for the long term—without maximum competition from Spain.

According to BILD, those responsible want to intensify the stalled contract talks again as soon as possible.

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