French-Guinean defender Dayot Upamecano attracts transfer tug-of-war between Real Madrid and Barcelona

Real Madrid and Barcelona are reportedly locked in a developing battle to sign Bayern Munich centre-back Dayot Upamecano, whose contract with the German champions expires at the end of the current season.

The French international, one of Europe’s most accomplished defenders, has yet to open renewal talks despite Bayern’s efforts to secure his long-term future.

Born in France to Guinean parents, Upamecano’s heritage has often been cited as part of his grounded character and disciplined style of play.

With his current deal set to end in June, the 26-year-old will be free to negotiate a pre-contract with clubs outside Germany from January 1 — a scenario that has alerted several major European teams.

According to reports from TuttoMercatoWeb, both Spanish giants have intensified their monitoring of the defender’s situation.

Real Madrid view Upamecano as an ideal successor to veteran centre-back Antonio Rüdiger, whose future at the Bernabéu remains uncertain beyond next summer.

Barcelona, meanwhile, are in the market for defensive reinforcements following the departure of Iñigo Martínez to Saudi club Al-Nassr.

Upamecano’s consistency and composure have long made him a valued figure at Bayern, where he has been central to their domestic dominance since joining from RB Leipzig in 2021.

His contract impasse, however, has prompted speculation that he could seek a fresh challenge outside the Bundesliga.

Real and Barça are both said to see his availability as a rare market opportunity — a world-class defender potentially available for free.

While neither club has made a formal approach, intermediaries are reportedly positioning themselves ahead of January’s transfer window.