Defensive reconstruction of the formation for 2026
Liverpool's long-term planning continues behind the scenes and, according to Anfield WatchThe club could return to the transfer market for a central defender in 2026. Having missed out on Marc Guchy at the end of the summer window, the Reds have been short-lived in defense after Giovanni Leoni's knee injury leaves the Arne slot with only three fit senior defenders.
Joe Gomez's future remains uncertain and Ibrahima Konate's contract is due to expire next summer. It is clear that Liverpool will need to strengthen their defensive line before the situation becomes critical. Whether they travel as an option remains unclear, especially if non-English clubs can now offer pre-contacts from January.
Interest in upamecano is growing
According to Anfield Watch, Liverpool have turned their attention to another target, with Dayot Upamecano emerging as a genuine candidate. His situation at Bayern Munich mirrors Konat in many ways. The French defender's contract is running and negotiations for an extension are said to be difficult.
“Bild reports that Liverpool is very much in the mix for Dayot upamecano,” the article said. “Like Konat, his contract expires at the end of the season and again, like his compatriot, negotiating a new deal is a struggle.”
The report added that Bayern have agreed to the wage package but have yet to meet the player's demand for a €17 million signing bonus. The number may seem extraordinary, but it reflects the current financial climate in which elite defenders have growing leverage.
Competition for signature
If Bayern refuse to honor their terms, interest from Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United could complicate matters. However, Liverpool are understood to be keeping a close eye on the development.
“He is a player who could solve some serious problems for them,” concludes the report, and few would disagree. A defender of Upamecano's caliber, with his pace, power and Champions League experience, fits Liverpool's profile perfectly.
Strategic step forward
Liverpool's recruitment team, led by Richard Hughes, have shown patience as they wait for the right opportunity. Whether the €17 million bonus proves a bad stumbling block or a statement of ambition remains to be seen. What is certain is that Liverpool's defensive overhaul has only just begun.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
The idea of signing a proven defender like Upamecano seems both ambitious and logical. The club's defensive depth has looked fragile for too long and with Konate's contract uncertainty along with Gomez's faltering form, a major addition could redefine the back line.
A signing bonus of €17 million may seem excessive, but in context it represents an investment in stability and elite experience. Liverpool's recent history has shown that calculated spending on key players can pay dividends, as it did with Alisson and Van Dijk.
There is also a strategic dimension. The signing of upamecano signals that Liverpool remain prepared to compete financially with Europe's biggest clubs. If Bayern falters, Liverpool could benefit, especially if their own wage structure allows for creative incentives rather than headline-grabbing fees.
In truth, Guehi would also be a smart long-term option, but the appeal of Upamecano's readiness for immediate impact is strong. Fans will be hoping the club acts decisively rather than waiting until 2026. While the team was still struggling on multiple fronts, another injury could once again leave the back line sidelined.
If the opportunity arises, 17 million Euros may not look extraordinary – it may look like value.
