'No big secret' - Bayern Munich confirm 'strong desire' to sign Dayot Upamecano to new contract amid Liverpool and Real Madrid interest

Bayern sporting director Eberl has confirmed that the club are keen to extend Upamecano’s contract. 

“We’re having open discussions, especially with Dayot Upamecano. It’s no big secret that we have a strong desire to extend his contract,” Eberl said in an interview with Sky Sport. With the French centre-back’s deal set to expire next summer, Bayern are acting early to ensure continuity in defence amid growing interest from Liverpool and Real Madrid. The club view Upamecano as a cornerstone of their backline, and talks are expected to continue quietly behind closed doors as the right time approaches.

Liverpool have identified Upamecano, 26, as a prime summer target to bolster their defence, particularly with Ibrahima Konate entering the final year of his contract. BILD reports Bayern see Upamecano as an alternative to Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, while the Frenchman’s pre-contract availability from January 1 gives Liverpool a strategic advantage. Real Madrid are also reportedly monitoring the centre-back, making Bayern’s timely negotiations critical to retaining their defensive star.

However, Bayern see their current players as key assets. "And as for the other players, a few contracts are expiring. Players who have been at FC Bayern for a long time. These are players who have a completely different perception, of themselves, but also of the team, of FC Bayern. And it's clear that we're always thinking about this. When we think the time is right, we'll start the talks quietly behind closed doors," said Eberl

Eberl also addressed Gnabry, who has returned to form under Vincent Kompany this season and is also nearing the end of his deal, saying: “Serge feels great. He's healthy. He's not thinking about it; he's playing, and he's doing an outstanding job at the moment." 

Despite past injury struggles and dips in form, Gnabry has contributed three goals and three assists in six appearances, thriving in a number 10 role behind Harry Kane. Bayern are monitoring the winger’s consistency, but discussions over a new contract may be delayed until the winter break, ensuring they evaluate performance before committing to long-term terms. 

"Serge had a very good time when he came to FC Bayern. Then there were one or two years that were what they were. I can't definitively assess why. But I can assess what I see now, what Vincent Kompany is doing with him, what Serge is bringing to the pitch," said the sporting director.

The Bavarians have enjoyed another dream start to the season, winning all competitive fixtures and demonstrating sharp attacking form. The 4-1 victory over Hoffenheim, featuring a Kane hat-trick, highlighted the squad’s quality. Eberl also praised the influence of Vincent Kompany in shaping the team’s confidence and cohesion, underscoring the importance of stability in key positions as Bayern chase domestic and European honours.

Bayern will host Werder Bremen in the Bundesliga and face Pafos in the Champions League, the Cypriot side making their debut at home in Europe. Upamecano and Gnabry’s contract situations will remain central to Bayern’s planning, particularly as the club balances squad continuity with potential transfer interest. Securing both players would reinforce Bayern’s title credentials domestically and in Europe.