Barcelona set to battle Liverpool in the race to sign Bayern Munich star – Report

Barcelona Eye Dayot Upamecano as Defensive Cornerstone

FC Barcelona are once again shopping in the elite aisle, with Fichajes reporting that Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano has emerged as a priority target. The allure is obvious. His contract runs until 2026 which means he could be available as a free agent, an increasingly valuable commodity for financially cautious giants.

Flick Connection Could Prove Pivotal

Hansi Flick knows exactly what he would be buying. The Barcelona manager worked closely with Upamecano at Bayern Munich and has already expressed his desire to reunite with the defender. As stated, Flick believes Upamecano would bring “solidity and experience” to the Catalan defence. That familiarity could be decisive, particularly given the player is reportedly demanding “a high salary and a significant signing bonus”. Barcelona may not win an auction with Real Madrid or Liverpool, but they can win the emotional pitch.

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Araujo Uncertainty Fuels the Move

The situation surrounding Ronald Araujo complicates matters. Once considered untouchable, the Uruguayan’s form has prompted internal debate. Reports suggest Barcelona would now “be willing to listen to offers”, effectively clearing space for Upamecano. Selling Araujo, a fan favourite, would be controversial. Yet Barcelona have managed such pivots before, replacing figureheads in search of a better tactical fit.

Competition Intensifies Across Europe

Upamecano’s availability has alerted Europe’s biggest institutions. Real Madrid and Liverpool are both named as potential suitors which will concern Barcelona. However, their advantage rests in managerial chemistry. As Fichajes highlight, Flick “has already worked with Upamecano and is familiar with his abilities”, something rival bidders cannot replicate.

Barcelona know what they are getting. Upamecano is not a raw prospect, he is a ready-made enforcer. Securing him without a transfer fee would be a financial coup, but timing is everything. Bayern remain hopeful of a renewal, and the player’s wage demands could yet escalate into a bidding war.

Barcelona must move with conviction rather than nostalgia. If they truly believe Upamecano is the foundation of a rebuilt defence, they will not wait for rivals to decide for them.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

This rumour will divide supporters. Some Barcelona fans will be excited, seeing Upamecano as a statement addition and a symbol of authority at the back. Others will be concerned at the thought of sacrificing Ronald Araujo to make it happen. Selling a warrior to fund another is a delicate gamble.

From a Liverpool perspective, there will be frustration. If Upamecano really is available on a free within 18 months, then why are Barcelona being allowed a head start? Arne Slot needs long-term defensive leaders, and missing out on someone of this calibre would be a blow.

Real Madrid fans will be sceptical, viewing the link as another Barcelona leak designed to stir urgency among rivals. Bayern supporters? Likely resigned. They have seen this contract dance before, watching key men walk away for nothing.

The most shocked group could yet be neutral observers. If Barcelona truly let Araujo leave, only to replace him with Upamecano, the debate will rage for months. One thing is certain, this is not just another rumour. This is the opening move in a defensive arms race.