Dayot Upamecano talks intensify as Bayern Munich aim to extend contract
Bayern Munich plan to extend Dayot Upamecano's contract, with club president Herbert Hainer expressing optimism about keeping the French centre-back despite interest from clubs.
Bayern Munich's Harry Kane drives Ballon d'Or push with trophies in his sights
The 32-year-old has produced 31 goal contributions (goals + assists) for Bayern Munich and England so far this season, a tally that puts him firmly among the frontrunners for world football's top individual honour.
Bayern Munich have not seen a player lift the Ballon d'Or since Karl-Heinz Rummenigge in 1981, but Kane said the drought will not end unless he delivers the biggest prizes available.
"I could score 100 goals this season but if I don't win the Champions League or the World Cup, you're probably not going to win the Ballon d'Or," Kane said in a recent interview.
"It's the same with Haaland, it's the same with any player. You have to be winning those major trophies. With the way the season is going as a team with Bayern Munich, it looks like we're in great shape."
Bayern Munich sit top of the Bundesliga (six points clear) with an unbeaten record in all competitions until a recent draw, and they are among the leading favourites for the Champions League under Vincent Kompany.
Kane believes the club's blistering form could significantly boost his individual chances.
"It looks like we're one of the favourites for the Champions League, for sure. So that maybe makes the odds a little bit more in my favour," he added.
With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, and England having just qualified with a perfect record (8 wins from 8, no goals conceded), Kane is confident about the Three Lions' prospects. "Same with England. I think we're going to go into the tournament as one of the favourites," he said.
Ahead of a short winter break after the busy festive period, Kane remains in peak condition: "From my point of view, I've got six more weeks before I get a nice break. I am feeling good. And that break will help us, but hopefully if things go my way for club and country then I'm definitely going to be in the conversation for a trophy like the Ballon d'Or."
England's Ben Stokes relishes 'biggest series' of his captaincy ahead of Ashes opener
England all-rounder Ben Stokes has labelled the upcoming Ashes series against Australia as the 'biggest series' of his tenure as Three Lions skipper.
Australia captain Steve Smith unfazed by Ashes pressure
Steve Smith struck a notably relaxed tone as he unveiled Australia's line-up for the opening match of what will be his ninth - and potentially final - Ashes series.
Bayer Leverkusen coach Kasper Hjulmand targets closing gap to Bayern Munich
Bayer Leverkusen head coach Kasper Hjulmand has said the club's revival since his arrival in September has been driven by restoring a clear identity and giving players the freedom to express themselves.