Bayern Munich Explores Defensive Reinforcements Ahead of Transfer Window

The “Bayern Insider” podcast from Sport Bild has reported that Bayern Munich is in communication with the entourage of Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté regarding a potential transfer. The club appears keen on bringing the former RB Leipzig player back to the Bundesliga on a free transfer. Additionally, Bayern has shown interest in Marc Guéhi from Crystal Palace.

Konaté, Guéhi, and current Bayern player Dayot Upamecano are at the center of a significant central defensive transition. All three defenders, who possess considerable market values, are under contracts set to expire at the end of the current season. Bayern is actively engaged in negotiations with Upamecano’s camp concerning a possible contract extension.

As the January transfer window approaches, the situation is likely to intensify. Once the transfer period opens at the beginning of the new year, these players will have the opportunity to negotiate free transfers to other clubs for the following season. Meanwhile, Palace, Liverpool, and Bayern may also pursue sales to other clubs to capitalize on their valuable centre-backs before potentially losing them for free.

Currently, Upamecano (€60m), Konaté (€55m), and Guéhi (€50m) are among the most valuable footballers globally with expiring contracts. Should Bayern successfully extend Upamecano’s contract, it seems unlikely that they would seek an additional central defender, especially given Upamecano’s impressive performances alongside German centre-back Jonathan Tah.

Nonetheless, the prospect of a central defensive partnership between Upamecano and Konaté remains appealing for the German giants. Konaté brings valuable experience with 66 Bundesliga appearances from his four seasons with RB Leipzig. His recent standout performance during a Champions League match against Eintracht Frankfurt further highlights his capabilities.