Real Madrid Set Sights on Bayern Munich’s Dayot Upamecano as Free Transfer Opportunity

Real Madrid are once again making headlines in the transfer market as they target Bayern Munich’s French centre-back, Dayot Upamecano. With Xabi Alonso determined to strengthen his defense before the close of the summer transfer window, Los Blancos are closely monitoring the Bayern star’s contract situation.

Alonso, who took charge last season, has made his priorities clear to Florentino Pérez. After a mixed campaign that saw Madrid fall short at crucial stages — including a humiliating exit in the Club World Cup against PSG — the Spanish coach wants proven reinforcements at the back. In that defeat, Antonio Rüdiger and Raúl Asencio were directly at fault for costly mistakes, leading Alonso to push for changes in central defense.

Despite already bringing in Dean Huijsen, Álvaro Carreras, and Trent Alexander-Arnold this summer, Alonso remains unconvinced. His top target throughout the window has been Ibrahima Konaté from Liverpool. The French defender is yet to commit to a new deal with the Premier League champions, and with his contract running down, Madrid are eyeing a potential free transfer next year.

This approach has become something of a transfer strategy for Pérez in recent years. Real Madrid have mastered the art of waiting for the right opportunity, picking up world-class talents as free agents. Trent Alexander-Arnold’s arrival earlier in the summer followed this same pattern, and the club could repeat the tactic with both Konaté and Upamecano.

According to reports from BILD, Real Madrid are now setting their sights firmly on Dayot Upamecano. The Frenchman’s contract renewal talks with Bayern Munich have stalled, with the German champions struggling to meet his salary demands. If negotiations do not progress, Upamecano will become available as a free agent next summer, giving Madrid another golden chance to reinforce without paying a transfer fee.

For Alonso, securing two top-class defenders like Konaté and Upamecano would transform his options at the back. Both players bring pace, strength, and experience at the highest level — qualities that Madrid’s backline lacked during key moments last season. With Los Blancos chasing trophies domestically and in Europe, defensive solidity could be the difference between heartbreak and glory.

Florentino Pérez, however, remains cautious. The Madrid president reportedly prefers waiting until next summer to make his move, especially with the possibility of signing both Frenchmen for free. For now, the priority is to remain competitive with the current squad, while keeping an eye on long-term reinforcements.

Upamecano’s potential arrival would also mark another significant blow for Bayern Munich, who have already faced uncertainty over player contracts. Losing such a key figure in defense, particularly on a free transfer, would be a setback for the German giants.

For Real Madrid fans, though, the prospect is mouthwatering. Pairing Upamecano with Konaté — two of France’s finest defenders — could secure the club’s backline for years to come. Combined with Alonso’s tactical expertise and the squad’s attacking talent, Madrid would be well-placed to dominate both La Liga and the Champions League.

The story is still developing, but one thing is certain: Real Madrid are once again playing the long game in the transfer market. By targeting Dayot Upamecano and Ibrahima Konaté, they are positioning themselves to secure elite talent at minimal cost, proving yet again why they remain one of the smartest operators in world football.