Bayern defender on Manchester United’s radar with Liverpool also in the race

Dayot Upamecano looks set to become one of the headline names of the upcoming summer transfer window, with uncertainty surrounding his future at Bayern Munich.

The French international centre-back, who has been a mainstay in the Bavarian club’s defence since arriving from RB Leipzig in 2021, is approaching the final stretch of his contract. According to respected journalist Christian Falk, both Liverpool and Manchester United are closely monitoring his situation, with United’s new manager Rúben Amorim reportedly a strong admirer of the player.

Bayern have not completely given up hope of keeping the 26-year-old, and discussions have taken place regarding a potential contract renewal. However, those talks have yet to produce any meaningful breakthrough, leaving the door open for Premier League clubs to test Bayern’s resolve in the coming months. With Upamecano’s current deal edging closer to its end, the German champions may be faced with a difficult decision: risk losing him for free, or cash in on one of their most valuable assets before it is too late.

For Liverpool, the interest makes sense given the looming need to refresh their defensive line. Virgil van Dijk, while still among the best in the world, is entering the latter stages of his career, and Joel Matip is no longer a guaranteed starter due to injuries and inconsistency. Jarell Quansah has shown promise, but the club are seeking an established defender who can partner Van Dijk now and lead the backline in the future. Upamecano’s mix of physicality, pace, and ability to play out from the back fits well with Liverpool’s profile, especially under Arne Slot, who is expected to place a strong emphasis on progressive build-up play from defence.

Manchester United, under Rúben Amorim, are also eager to reinforce at the back. With Raphaël Varane leaving the club at the end of the season and Harry Maguire’s future uncertain, defensive reinforcements are a priority for the Old Trafford hierarchy. Amorim, known for his tactical discipline and reliance on centre-backs who are comfortable both defending space and building possession, is said to view Upamecano as an ideal signing to reshape United’s defence. The Frenchman’s experience at the highest level, from Bundesliga battles to Champions League campaigns, makes him an attractive option for a club looking to rebuild its defensive stability.

Upamecano’s career trajectory to this point highlights his consistency and steady rise. After impressing at RB Salzburg, he made the step up to RB Leipzig, where he developed into one of Europe’s most sought-after young defenders. His performances there convinced Bayern Munich to trigger his release clause in 2021, and he has since played over 100 matches for the German giants, winning multiple domestic trophies and establishing himself as a regular for the French national team. Despite occasional criticism for lapses in concentration during high-stakes matches, his physical dominance, aerial strength, and recovery pace have made him a cornerstone of Bayern’s defence.

Now, as he enters what should be the peak years of his career, the next step could prove decisive. Staying at Bayern would provide continuity and stability at one of Europe’s most successful clubs, but the lure of the Premier League   with its financial muscle, competitiveness, and global visibility   is strong. Liverpool and Manchester United both offer prestigious platforms, and the chance to play a central role in their respective rebuilds may appeal to the ambitious defender.

For Bayern, the coming months will be crucial. Losing Upamecano without securing a renewal would weaken their defensive options and raise questions about their long-term planning. They already face uncertainty in other areas of the squad, with contract situations looming for key players, and the club’s leadership is under pressure to ensure Bayern remain competitive both domestically and in Europe.

At 26, Upamecano represents both present quality and future potential. His next move, whether it is committing his long-term future to Bayern or embracing a new challenge in England, will be one of the most closely followed stories of the summer transfer market. For Liverpool and Manchester United supporters, the possibility of signing a player of his calibre is tantalising, while for Bayern fans the hope remains that their club can persuade him to stay.

What is certain is that Dayot Upamecano will be at the centre of speculation until his future is resolved. With contract talks stalled and two of the Premier League’s biggest clubs circling, the French defender’s name is set to dominate headlines in the months ahead.