Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing another of RB Leipzig’s stars in the form of Dayot Upamecano. The Reds were hindered in their attempts to bring in their primary target Van Dijk, but Southampton were not interested in talking business. The French youngster could be seen as a potential plan-B if the Reds’ attempt for Van Dijk is unsuccessful once again in January.
Liverpool will have to act quickly if they want their man, given that a new contract is on the table for the prized youngster with a €100m buyout clause. To make things even harder, Barcelona are tracking the youngster’s development as well. That would mean serious competition and a hard one to pull off if Barcelona make him a priority.
At 19 years of age, Upamecano has already made 8 appearances for RB Leipzig this season since his move from sister club RB Salzburg last January. Standing at over 6ft the Frenchman has a significant presence in the air both in attack and defence, which is evident from his 3.4 aerial won per game. Although the centre back holds just 1 goal and 2 assists in as many as 67 games, he is definitely one of the brightest young defenders at the market.
Given that Liverpool have been criticised hugely criticised for their defensive woes and their expenditure on quality defenders, Upamecano could be the one to sort out their problems.
Manchester City spent nearly £123 million pounds in the summer to strengthen their backline. So far all that Liverpool have done to address their defensive issues was the purchase of Andrew Robertson, who by no means can fix things single-handedly.
Liverpool, in their 5 away games so far, have conceded a mammoth 15 goals. A lot of it is attributed to individual mistakes. But also as a team, their defence is far from convincing.
Liverpool lack miserably in depth at the back. An injury to either one of their primary centre backs could prove to be fatal, given that their next choice is Ragnar Klavan, who hasn’t been convincing, himself. Upamecano’s addition could be the new armour in Liverpool’s dented defence.
Signing the Leipzig star is probably not going to solve all their issues at the back. But it is a step in the right direction for Jurgen Klopp. He trusted his existing members in the summer, but they have let him down badly. The January transfer window is a crucial period for the Reds. They have to act smartly and swiftly if Jurgen Klopp aspires to win any silverware this season.
Should Jurgen Klopp sign this promising young centre back?
