Bayern Munich sporting director Christoph Freund has moved to calm growing speculation surrounding Dayot Upamecano’s future, at a time when Real Madrid are keeping a close eye on developments.
The French defender has emerged as a serious name on Los Blancos’ radar, largely due to the lack of progress in his contract talks with the German champions.
As reported before, Upamecano’s discussions over a new deal have hit a clear standstill. The issue is not sporting, but financial.
The centre-back’s representatives have already laid their demands on the table, and they are significant.
Bayern, for their part, have so far shown little willingness to meet them, leading to weeks of stagnation in negotiations.
Real Madrid on alert
According to reports, Upamecano is pushing to be recognised as one of the club’s top earners should he remain in Munich.
His camp is seeking a salary in the region of €20 million gross per season, a figure that would place him among Bayern’s elite earners.
What makes the situation particularly interesting from a Real Madrid perspective is the lack of urgency on the player’s side.
Upamecano is yet to renew his contract with Bayern Munich. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Upamecano and his agents are in no rush to reach an agreement and are prepared to wait several months if necessary.
With no real progress expected before Christmas, uncertainty continues to hover over his long-term future.
For Madrid, who are constantly assessing the market for elite defenders, Upamecano represents a proven, prime-age option with Champions League experience.
What is Bayern Munich’s stance?
Despite the external noise, Christoph Freund has publicly struck a confident and reassuring tone.
The sporting director, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano, has stressed that dialogue remains open and positive.
“We are having intensive and very constructive discussions. Upa feels very comfortable with us”.
Freund went on to downplay the importance of timing, signalling that Bayern are not panicking about the current delay.
“We are positive. It does not matter if it happens a day earlier or later – what is important for us is that it happens,” he added.