According to a report from Sport Bild journalists Christian Falk and Tobi Altschäffl (as captured by @iMiaSanMia), new Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany threw disappointing center-back Dayot Upamecano a lifeline and told the club to keep the Frenchman in favor of Dutchman Matthijs de Ligt:
At the center-back position, the initial plan was to put Dayot Upamecano up for sale. But with Vincent Kompany’s request, there was a change of plan. Upamecano should now be kept. Meanwhile, Matthijs de Ligt has been informed that he’s allowed to leave for a suitable offer. With an estimated €16m per year, the Dutchman earns a high salary. In addition, he has a market following his strong performances in the Champions League last season. Selling de Ligt would then bring in much needed funds for other transfers and free up wages.
For those doubting the reports on De Ligt, this could be troublesome. Just a few weeks ago, Upamecano was the player reportedly up for sale, but in recent days De Ligt became the focal point of transfer rumors.
This reports seems to corroborate recent news put out by Sky Sport journalist Florian Plettenberg and could stun many Bayern Munich fans, who have watch De Ligt excel in his first two seasons with the club.
Looking for some thoughts and analysis on Bayern Munich’s pursuit of João Palhinha, how he might fit in the squad, and what the roster fallout might look like? Then check out our latest Bavarian Podcast Works Show, where we also hit on why Sky Sport’s report on six big player sales might not be so far offbase and why the German national team did not give fans a ton of confidence after the friendlies against Ukraine and Greece. You can get the podcast on Spotify or below: