Bayern Munich’s sporting director Max Eberl has admitted that talks with Dayot Upamecano over a new deal are moving slowly, partly joking that the problem is his lack of French. Speaking after Bayern’s recent game, Eberl laughed that he can only say “très bien” in French, and that isn’t much help when it comes to contract negotiations.
Softfootball understands that the comment was made in good humour, but behind the scenes, there is a serious matter to resolve. Upamecano, who was recently on international duties in France’s 2-1 victory over Iceland, has a current contract that runs until 2026, and Bayern want to extend it further, reportedly until 2030. Salary demands and the structure of a possible release clause are believed to be the main sticking points.
Italian sports journalist Fabrizio Romano quoted the comments made by Bayern’s sporting director via his official X account.
He tweeted:
Bayern director Eberl on Upamecano new deal: Talks are taking place… in French. Très bien. I don’t know any more French than that. That’s why we haven’t made any progress yet [laughs]
Eberl and fellow sporting director Christoph Freund both underlined that there is no deadline yet and that the French international is a key part of their long-term plans. Upamecano himself confirmed that discussions are active, with his agents in constant contact with Bayern; he even recently helped Bayern keep a clean sheet in their 5-nil drubbing of HSV.
Since arriving from RB Leipzig in 2021, the 25-year-old has had an up-and-down spell in Bavaria. Early mistakes and injuries saw his confidence questioned, but under Vincent Kompany, he looks more assured and has formed a strong partnership with Jonathan Tah at the back. Bayern see him as a cornerstone for the next few years.
The Bavarians have recently tied down big names like Manuel Neuer, Joshua Kimmich and Jamal Musiala, so securing Upamecano is the next priority. However, European heavyweights are monitoring the situation. Real Madrid, who lured David Alaba away in 2021, are rumoured to be interested again should things drag on.
Bayern are eager to avoid history repeating itself. For now, the mood is positive, but the negotiations still need a breakthrough.
