Dayot Upamecano linked with Liverpool switch as Reds look to solve defensive crisis

Liverpool are interested in Bayern Munich center-back Dayot Upamecano, according to reports from Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg.

The reports come as Liverpool take on Qarabag in the Champions League tonight, with only one senior centre back in the side.

Virgil Van Dijk is the last man standing for Arne Slot after the Reds lost Joe Gomez to injury against Bournemouth recently.

Liverpool have already lost Giovanni Leoni to a season-ending injury back in September, whilst first-choice center back Ibrahima Konate also remains absent due to personal reasons.

With their defensive numbers dwindling, the Reds may be keen to dip into the transfer market before the window closes, with Bayern’s Upamecano seen as an ideal target.

Liverpool to move for Dayot Upamecano after Bayern contract talks stall

The Frenchman is one of many high-profile players whose contract expires this summer.

Bayern Munich have offered Upamecano a new deal, but the 27-year-old is considering his options before committing to the Bavarians.

Speaking on Sky Sports, reporter Florian Plettenberg said: “Everyone is waiting for his commitment, his signature. His contract is ready. But Bayern Munich will not improve their offer.

“Upamecano can sign it, [taking him until] 2030 or 2031. There’s a release clause included from the summer of 2027. He can earn 20m Euros gross per year and receive a big signing fee, together with his agent.”

“Upamaguire” is one of the top defenders in the Bundesliga again

Upamecano has been seen as a solid option in the middle of defence since bursting onto the scene with RB Leipzig in 2017.

Current club Bayern Munich were willing to pay €42.5 million for his services in 2021, though Upamecano initially struggled at the German side.

During a disappointing display in a 4-1 aggregate defeat to Manchester City in the 2023 Champions League Quarter Finals, one commentator even referred to the Frenchman as “Upamaguire”.

However, Upamecano has since restored his reputation under new manager Vincent Kompany and played a pivotal role in their Bundesliga win last season.

Will Liverpool repeat Marc Guehi mistake?

With his stock rising again, Bayern have been looking to tie down the Frenchman, but have been facing an agonising wait.

Upamecano may be waiting for Arne Slot to come in with an offer, but, according to Plattenburg, Liverpool are not the only side the Frenchman is counting on.

“But my opinion is he’s waiting for Liverpool, for Real Madrid”, he said.

“Liverpool is interested in Upamecano, we can confirm that.”

The question remains, will the Reds look to make a move before the transfer window shuts on 2 February? Or will they wait to sign the Frenchman in the summer, like they did with Marc Guehi until City swooped in for the Crystal Palace man?