"We will make the right decision" - Dayot Upamecano addresses uncertain Bayern future amid links to Real Madrid and Liverpool

Dayot Upamecano has addressed the uncertainty surrounding his future at Bayern Munich amid links to European giants Real Madrid and Liverpool. The French defender has entered the final months of his contract with the Bavarians and has yet to agree to a new deal with the club.

In September, reports emerged suggesting that Real Madrid and Liverpool are monitoring Upamecano’s situation, with both clubs looking to sign him as a free agent next summer. Upamecano, who joined Bayern in 2021, has been a mainstay in Vincent Kompany’s squad in the ongoing campaign. But with his contract set to run out in June, there have been concerns about whether he will put pen to paper on a new deal with Bayern.

Speaking to L’Equipe, Upamecano stated that his agent is handling the situation, insisting that any decision regarding his future would be made carefully.

“My agent is taking care of it,” he said. “We will make the right decision. I am receiving good advice. I am focused on this season and my goals with the club and the national team. I don't have the headspace for it. I'm completely relaxed. I'm under contract with FC Bayern. I have goals. But I'm very grateful when clubs are interested in me."

Upamecano has made 15 appearances for Bayern so far this season, and his current market value stands at €60 million, according to Transfermarkt.

“He needs to start playing well enough” – Ibrahima Konaté sent Real Madrid transfer message as Liverpool form comes under scrutiny

Liverpool legend John Barnes has warned defender Ibrahima Konate that his inconsistent performances for the Reds could impede his chance of joining Real Madrid. Konate has endured subpar outings this season, which have coincided with Liverpool’s recent poor form. Adding to the intrigue, the Frenchman is approaching the final six months of his contract and has been linked with a move to the Spanish capital.

Barnes, who earned over 400 caps for the Reds, advised Konate that a potential move to Real Madrid could be off the cards unless he starts to play well.

“Ibrahima Konate’s performances reflect the inconsistency of Liverpool as a team currently," said Barnes. "If he’s looking at a potential move to Real Madrid, he needs to start playing well enough so they’ll want to buy him!,” he told Video Gamer. “As far as the narrative around players’ heads turning when their contract starts to run down, some players handle it differently to others. For example, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Roberto Firmino gave 100% effort when they were playing before they left the club. Konate is a good player who is going through a difficult period - like the whole team - so I don’t think you can single him out more than anyone else.”

Konate joined the Reds from Leipzig in 2021 for a reported fee of €40 million.

Edited by Ezekiel Olamide