Upamecano has agreed to join Real Madrid, Konate no longer a priority

Real Madrid have reached a verbal agreement with Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano over a free transfer next summer, according to Foot Mercato.

The French defender’s contract with Bayern expires in June 2026, and the club is trying to persuade him to renew.

However, he is now the leading candidate to reinforce Madrid’s backline. Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate is no longer a top priority.

Los Blancos have been scouring the market for experienced defensive solutions due to uncertainty over the futures of David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger.

Both players are out of contract in 2026, prompting the Spanish giants to act early.

Upamecano aligns perfectly with the club’s vision. He is a battle-tested, Champions League veteran, available at no transfer fee.

The 27-year-old should also fit in as he is well-acquainted with several of Madrid’s French contingent, including Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga and Ferland Mendy.

Upamecano has reportedly convinced Madrid president Florentino Perez. He has cut out the high-profile mistakes to become one of the best centre-backs in the Bundesliga.

Bayern have offered him a contract extension, but negotiations remain unresolved, opening the door for a switch to the Santiago Bernabeu.

The development comes a day after scouts watched Liverpool’s 1–0 Champions League win over Madrid, where Konate was one of the standout performers.

His display did not go unnoticed, and he has been open to joining the Spanish giants, especially with his own deal at Anfield winding down.

However, Madrid’s focus has since shifted decisively toward Upamecano, and it remains unclear if they want two new centre-halves.

Paris Saint-Germain remain interested in both defenders, but all signs now point to Upamecano making the move to Madrid.

If completed, it would be another major coup for Perez, securing one of Europe’s elite centre-backs on a free transfer.

Madrid have reportedly pulled out of the race to sign Crystal Palace ace Marc Guehi, paving the way for Liverpool.

Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Chelsea, and Inter Milan are also interested in signing him.