Report | Dayot Upamecano on Arsenal’s radar once again
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Arsenal are said to be in pole position to sign RB Leipzig centre back Dayot Upamecano after his defensive displays have won admirers across Europe. The Gunners are set to beat Serie A giants AC Milan to Upamecano’s signing but will have to shell out in excess of £50 million to sign the defender.
RB Leipzig defender has been one of the findings of Bundesliga after impressing in Germany post his move from sister club RB Salzburg in 2017. His solid displays has seen him become a wanted commodity in Europe with Arsenal being highly interested. The Gunners now lead the race to sign the Frenchman beating competition from AC Milan reports the Daily Mail. The Gunners had attempted to snare the French defender in the summer but were scared off after being asked to cough up £70m.
However, now the Arsenal can sign the player for a much lower figure in the region of £50 million after a clause in Upamecano’s contract revealed that his release clause figure would fall to £50 next summer. But that's only if he doesn't sign a new deal with the German giants before the end of the season. Calciomercato further reported that Milan are also chasing the centre back as they look to add depth to their depleted defence. The report further suggests that Upamecano’s release clause falls by £17m each year, Leipzig should be interested in cashing in while his stock is high.
Upamecano suffered a knee injury in January that kept him out for 110 days. He again missed 3 Bundesliga games due to the same injury in August making him a significant absentee in Leipzig’s plans. He has been barely used this term making just 5 appearances for the German club. Upamecano could solve Arsenal defensive woes, with the North London club being criticised in the past few months for their poor defensive record.
