Dayot Upamecano demands significant wage rise to match Alphonso Davies as Bayern Munich plot contract talks with defender

The French international has emerged as the latest contract priority for the Bavarians, with the defender demanding a significant wage increase in line with team-mate Alphonso Davies according to recent reports. The 26-year-old, who made 38 competitive appearances last season, currently earns around €10 million annually, but is seeking closer to €15m (£13m/$16m) the reported figure Davies is on following his extension earlier this year.

Bayern, who want to secure the long-term future of their starting centre-back, have scheduled initial contract talks for the autumn, with a view to concrete negotiations beginning early next year. Upamecano, whose current deal runs until 2026, has rediscovered his best form under new head coach Vincent Kompany and remains integral to the Bavarian giants’ European plans.

Bayern’s handling of Upamecano’s future reflects a broader strategy of locking down key players as they reshape the squad under Kompany. With veterans Manuel Neuer, Joshua Kimmich and starlet Jamal Musiala already tied to new deals, the Bavarians are determined to avoid uncertainty around one of their defensive leaders. The defender’s case is also symbolic of a growing wage recalibration at Bayern, where top players are now pushing for parity with each other. 

If Upamecano secures a deal closer to Davies’ new contract, it could set a precedent for other stars, adding complexity to Bayern’s salary structure. At the same time, Bayern cannot afford to lose a central defender of his calibre, especially with Jonathan Tah only just bedding into the backline, and Davies slowly getting into the pace with the team's new season.

Upamecano’s importance to Bayern has grown steadily since his 2021 move from RB Leipzig. Though his early years in Munich were inconsistent he has matured into a more reliable presence, showing composure and physical dominance. Kompany’s trust in him has been clear, with the Frenchman expected to anchor the defence alongside Tah this season.

However, reports suggest Upamecano has at least considered the prospect of a move to the Premier League, where several English clubs remain long-term admirers. That outside interest strengthens his bargaining power in talks with Bayern. From the club’s side, negotiations will be postponed until after the transfer window closes on September 1, as they prioritise squad finalisation before turning to contract renewals.

Bayern are expected to open formal negotiations with Upamecano later this year, aiming to avoid a drawn-out saga that could unsettle the squad. While both parties are optimistic about reaching an agreement, the salary gap remains a central issue. If Bayern meet Upamecano’s demands, they would secure a cornerstone defender for the prime years of his career and send a strong message about their commitment to stability under Kompany. Failure to do so, however, could leave the door open to Premier League suitors in 2026. For now, Bayern’s priority is ensuring defensive solidity on the pitch, as they are set to face Augsburg in their Bundesliga's next game on Saturday.