In a stunning twist that could reshape Liverpool’s defensive fortress and expose cracks in their attacking dynasty, the Reds have launched an urgent mission to snatch Bayern Munich’s powerhouse defender Dayot Upamecano – dubbed the “Terminator” for his unrelenting, game-destroying presence on the pitch.
With contract talks at Bayern hitting a wall and Mohamed Salah’s form spiraling into a full-blown crisis, Liverpool’s hierarchy is pulling out all stops to fortify Arne Slot’s squad for the battles ahead in 2026. TEAMtalk brings you the exclusive lowdown on this blockbuster development.
Upamecano: The €65m Beast Liverpool Craves
Liverpool’s transfer radar has zeroed in on Dayot Upamecano, the French international who’s been a linchpin in Bayern’s backline since his arrival from RB Leipzig in 2021. According to reports from German outlet TZ, Upamecano’s representatives have actively “offered” the 27-year-old to Anfield, sparking an emergency operation from the Reds’ recruitment team. With his Bayern contract expiring on June 30, 2026, Upamecano could be available on a free transfer under the Bosman ruling – a golden opportunity for cash-conscious Fenway Sports Group (FSG) to land a player valued at around €65m.
But why the “Terminator” moniker? Upamecano’s blend of raw power, tactical intelligence, and ability to neutralize top forwards has earned him the nickname among fans and pundits. Standing at 6’1″ with lightning pace and aerial dominance, he’s the kind of defender who doesn’t just stop attacks – he obliterates them. Liverpool see him as the perfect heir to Virgil van Dijk, whose influence is waning with age, and a upgrade on the inconsistent Ibrahima Konate, whose performances this season have raised eyebrows.
The sticking points in Upamecano’s Bayern negotiations are crystal clear: his agent is demanding a €65m release clause in any new deal, a rarity for the Bavarian giants, though they’ve bent rules for stars like Harry Kane and Jamal Musiala recently. On top of that, Upamecano is pushing for a mammoth €18m annual salary – equivalent to £304k per week – which Bayern have so far balked at. Sources close to the talks describe Upamecano as “happy in Munich,” but with no breakthrough in sight, Liverpool are monitoring the situation like hawks. If Bayern blink, the Reds are ready to pounce, joining heavyweights like Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain in the race.
This move aligns perfectly with Slot’s vision for a post-Van Dijk era. Liverpool have already identified Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi as their primary target, but with Europe’s elite circling the England international, Upamecano represents a high-caliber Plan B. “The club is activating all channels,” a source told TEAMtalk. “This isn’t just interest – it’s an emergency operation to secure defensive stability amid growing uncertainties.”
Salah’s Shocking Weakness: Form Slump and Contract Chaos
As Liverpool gear up for this defensive coup, the spotlight intensifies on Mohamed Salah, whose “alarming weakness” has exploded into public view. The Egyptian king’s recent interview bombshell – claiming he’s being “thrown under the bus” by the club – has ignited a firestorm at Anfield. Salah, who assisted in his cameo against Brighton before departing for the Africa Cup of Nations, is reportedly at odds with Slot over his role.
Transfer insider Graeme Bailey reveals that Liverpool officials have initiated “make-up talks” with Salah’s camp to douse the flames. FSG is desperate to avoid this saga dominating headlines into January and beyond, but the issues run deep. Salah, at 33, refuses to accept a diminished role, insisting on starting every big game. However, Slot has noted improved defensive solidity without him, and Salah’s goal-scoring form this season has been uncharacteristically sub-par – a far cry from his predatory best.
Rumors of a “gentleman’s agreement” allowing Salah to leave after one year of a potential new contract have been dismissed as “nonsense” by both sides. Yet, the tension is palpable. “This weakness in Salah’s game – both on and off the pitch – is exploding at the worst time,” Bailey notes. “Liverpool need harmony, but if unresolved, it could force their hand in the market.”
Wider Transfer Ripples: Mingueza on the Radar
Amid the Upamecano pursuit and Salah drama, Liverpool aren’t stopping there. Anfield Index reports that the Reds are eyeing Celta Vigo’s versatile right-back Oscar Mingueza, whose contract also expires in June 2026. The 26-year-old Spaniard, capable of playing across the defense, draws parallels to Trent Alexander-Arnold’s shock summer move to Real Madrid. Liverpool’s replacement, Jeremie Frimpong, has been hampered by injuries, leaving a gap Mingueza could fill on a free.
With “a number of Premier League clubs” in the mix, Liverpool’s interest underscores their proactive stance. This could be another masterstroke, echoing their savvy dealings in a post-Alexander-Arnold world.
What It Means for Liverpool’s 2026 Ambitions
This blockbuster saga encapsulates Liverpool’s crossroads: bolstering a leaky defense with a “Terminator” like Upamecano while navigating the explosive fallout from Salah’s woes. Slot’s side has shown promise this season, but vulnerabilities are glaring. Securing Upamecano could be the emergency fix that propels them back to title contention, but only if the Salah storm subsides.
Stay tuned to TEAMtalk for more breaking updates – add us to your Google favorites for trusted transfer news. Will Liverpool land their Bayern beast, or will Salah’s saga steal the show? The January window looms large.
