Overview

• Bayern director Max Eberl said the club will open talks to keep Dayot Upamecano, confirming their interest in extending his contract.
• Upamecano had been identified as a Liverpool target, but Bayern’s stance represents a setback to hopes of a potential free transfer.
• Liverpool currently have three senior centre-backs in Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Ibrahima Konaté after Quansah’s sale and Leoni’s long-term injury.
• Reports say Liverpool’s shortlist includes Marc Guehi and Jan Paul van Hecke as the club weighs January business against waiting for the summer.
• Short-term cover is under consideration, with Wataru Endo touted as a makeshift option and Ryan Gravenberch already used at centre-back during a recent match.