Spanish press reports indicate that Real Madrid is planning to sign Bayern Munich star Dayot Upamecano on a free transfer in the summer of 2026.
The club is looking to sign a new central defender, and Real Madrid’s management has already drawn up a list of the most prominent names it will pursue. Liverpool star Ibrahima Konate is the most prominent name, but he now faces competition from fellow Frenchman Upamecano.
For Real Madrid, this is an ideal opportunity to sign Upamecano, whose contract with Bayern Munich expires next summer, especially since the player is still at odds with the Bavarian club’s management over a new contract.
Upamecano initially has no objection to renewing his contract with Bayern Munich for another four years, but his financial demands, particularly regarding salary, are high and Max Eberl’s management refuses to accept them, making him more likely to leave the Allianz Arena at the moment.
Real Madrid wants to take advantage of the situation and convince Upamecano that he will be a key player in Xabi Alonso’s squad next season, signing him for free in a deal that won’t cost the club much.
Real Madrid has made a habit of signing players this way in recent years, with the most notable free transfers being David Alaba, also from Bayern Munich, and Kylian Mbappé last year from Paris Saint-Germain.
All options remain open regarding Upamecano. The option of renewing with Bayern remains open, provided financial support is met. Real Madrid, meanwhile, is already ready to offer the distinguished defender a hefty salary and is only awaiting a final decision before officially moving forward with the deal.
