Bayern Munich central defender Dayot Upamecano has publicly addressed the mounting speculation surrounding a potential big-money transfer, sending a clear message to interested clubs including Chelsea and Liverpool.
Contract stalemate sparks transfer frenzy
The 27-year-old France international has entered the final six months of his current deal at the Allianz Arena, creating significant uncertainty about his long-term future. Despite being a key figure for the German champions, talks over a contract extension have reportedly stalled, with negotiations described as a 'game of poker' that has been 'dragging on for months'.
Upamecano has been virtually ever-present for Bayern this season, starting nine of their opening 11 Bundesliga matches. Since his arrival from RB Leipzig in 2021, the powerful centre-back has helped the club secure three league titles and three German Super Cups, establishing himself as a crucial component of their defence.
European giants on high alert
The contract impasse has put several of Europe's elite clubs on red alert, with Chelsea, Liverpool, Real Madrid and Inter Milan all closely monitoring developments. Bayern reportedly value the defender at around €60 million (£53 million), but face a critical decision in the January transfer window: cash in now or risk losing him for nothing when his contract expires next summer.
Speaking after scoring in Bayern's 6-2 victory over SC Freiburg on Saturday, Upamecano sought to reassure fans about his commitment to the club while acknowledging the ongoing discussions. 'I am very happy here,' the defender told reporters. 'He [Vincent Kompany] is an outstanding coach and we talk a lot. It's fun to play under him!'
Money not the motivating factor
Upamecano was keen to emphasise that financial considerations would not dictate his ultimate decision. 'No, no. It has nothing to do with money,' he stated firmly. 'We're discussing it. We talk a lot with Max Eberl and Christoph Freund. I'm satisfied, I'm having a good season, I'm doing my job, I'm giving everything for this club.'
Bayern's sporting director Max Eberl has previously acknowledged the club's determination to secure Upamecano's future. 'We want to do our best and get a new contract done. We are on it,' Eberl told Sky Deutschland earlier this month, describing the defender as having 'developed into one of the best centre-backs in the world'.
Head coach Vincent Kompany has also repeatedly expressed his desire to keep the Frenchman, describing Upamecano as 'an absolutely important part of our team'. However, the Belgian coach acknowledged that the final decision extends beyond his direct influence within the club's hierarchy.
With the January transfer window approaching, the coming weeks will prove crucial in determining whether Upamecano remains in Munich or becomes available for what would undoubtedly be one of the most sought-after free transfers next summer.
