According to Kicker, as cited by Metro, Dayot Upamecano could be available for a cut-price deal next summer. The RB Leipzig defender reportedly had a €100 million release clause that decreases €20 million each summer. That means the Frenchman could be available for as low as €60 million at the end of the season, with Leipzig willing to part ways with him for a lower fee as they run the risk of losing him for free next season.
Upamecano is one of the best defenders in the Bundesliga
Since joining RB Leipzig at the start of 2017, Upamecano has enjoyed an incredible rise in stock in east Germany. He has already notched up 59 competitive appearances with Die Roten Bullen and has instantly become a key component of the backline under Julian Nagelsman, after initially struggling with an injury.
Upamecano has impressed the onlookers with his imposing presence at the heart of the backline. His efficiency in the build-up, meanwhile, makes him a significantly better defensive option when compared to Willi Orban or Ibrahima Konate. Besides, Nagelsmann’s dynamic style of play is ideally suited to Upa, who loves to move forward and influence the game with his passing.
Another key factor of his game is the physical prowess while the 20-year-old is also a threat from indirect set-pieces.
Why Arsenal must sign Upamecano at any cost
Arsenal have done well to reinforce their midfield and attacking department in the summer bringing in the likes of Dani Ceballos and Nicolas Pepe. However, the defence still remains a worry as both Sokratis Papastathopoulos and David Luiz have constantly struggled in providing the solidity at the back.
As for Rob Holding and Shkodran Mustafi, they are yet to be tested against a quality Premier League opponent. Although the pending arrival of William Saliba next summer will surely boost Arsenal, they are still in need of someone like Upamecano.
The Frenchman, as iterated earlier, is known for his passing and build-up from the back. He can, therefore, settle in quickly under Unai Emery’s tactical setup that focuses on building the ball up from the back – something Sokratis and Luiz have really struggled with this season.
Furthermore, Upamecano’s physical and aerial prowess makes him a tailor-made fit for the Premier League. And at the age of just 20, he could turn out to be an excellent long-term investment for Arsenal. Not to mention, the Leipzig star could potentially build a strong combination with Saliba next season – giving the defence a new identity.
Hence, the Gunners should stop focusing on an attacking target and should instead make a move for Upamecano next summer.
