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Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl has confirmed that extending the contract of French defender Dayot Upamecano is the club’s top priority over pursuing a deal for young Croatian talent Luka Vuskovic, who is currently on loan at Hamburg. The Bundesliga leaders are focused on securing their existing defensive options as Upamecano’s current deal approaches its expiration at the end of the season.
Speaking to reporters ahead of Bayern’s league match against Hoffenheim, Eberl emphasized the club’s strategy of prioritizing internal squad matters. According to Eberl, Bayern will first attempt to finalize contract extensions with current players before exploring external recruitment options.
Bayern Munich Prioritizes Upamecano Contract Extension
The 27-year-old French international’s future at Bayern Munich has remained uncertain for several months as negotiations continue. Upamecano would be eligible to leave the club on a free transfer if no agreement is reached before his contract expires this summer.
However, Eberl indicated significant progress in the discussions. The sporting director stated that the club is close to finalizing the matter and looks forward to announcing the extension soon, suggesting an agreement may be imminent.
Vuskovic Interest Addressed
Regarding speculation linking Bayern to the 18-year-old Vuskovic, Eberl acknowledged the player’s quality while explaining why a move is unlikely. The Croatian international defender, who belongs to Tottenham Hotspur, has enjoyed an impressive season during his loan spell with Hamburg in Germany’s second division.
Meanwhile, Eberl emphasized Bayern’s existing defensive depth as a key factor in the decision. The sporting director highlighted that the club already possesses high-quality center-backs including Jonathan Tah, Upamecano, and Kim Min-jae, making additional reinforcements unnecessary at this position.
Additionally, Eberl pointed out the versatility within Bayern’s current squad. Croatian defender Josip Stanisic and Japanese international Hiroki Ito can both operate as central defenders in addition to their capabilities as full-backs, providing further tactical flexibility.
Strategic Squad Management
The Bayern Munich sporting director addressed broader recruitment philosophy in his comments. Eberl stated that the club cannot sign every talented player that supporters believe would be a good fit, indicating a more measured approach to transfer activity under his leadership.
In contrast to pursuing younger prospects, Bayern appears committed to retaining experienced defenders who are already familiar with the club’s system. This strategy reflects the team’s current position at the top of the Bundesliga table and their desire for continuity in defense.
The French defender’s potential contract extension would secure one of Bayern’s key defensive players for the foreseeable future. Upamecano has been an important figure in Bayern’s backline since joining from RB Leipzig, contributing to the club’s domestic dominance.
Furthermore, resolving the contract situation would eliminate uncertainty surrounding the defensive core ahead of next season. Bayern Munich’s decision to focus on internal matters demonstrates confidence in their existing personnel rather than pursuing expensive external additions.
An official announcement regarding Upamecano’s contract extension is expected in the coming weeks, according to Eberl’s recent statements. The timing of any announcement remains uncertain, though the club appears optimistic about reaching a final agreement before the current season concludes.
