Arsenal are regarded as favourites to sign RB Leipzig defender Dayot Upamecano this summer.
With just over a year to run on his current deal, Upamecano is hesitating at opening talks about a new contract.
BILD reported RBL are now prepared to sell, and Arsenal are regarded as favourites to land the France international.
Upamecano’s deal carries a €60m buyout clause, however given his contract situation and RBL’s willingness to sell, the defender is expected to leave for a heavy discount.
Just this week, RBL chief Oliver Mintzlaff declared: “‘Upa’ is an extremely important player for us and one of the most sought-after talents in Europe.
“And we can assure that we have a clear understanding with him and his agent he won’t leave us on a free. We can’t afford that as a club.
“There are only two options: prolong or leave. I am sure we’ll soon find out in which direction it’s going.” Says Mintzlaff.
In an update regarding the club’s interest in the RB Leipzig star, Football London Arsenal writer James Benge told supporters in a Q&A session earlier in the month that the defender’s asking price which was £70m last summer is likely to drop.
“Arsenal’s interest in Upamecano is genuine and long-standing,” Benge said. “Arsenal have been tracking Upamecano for several years. Contrary to reports at the time they did not make a bid for him last summer, largely because he was out of their reach at in excess of £70million.
“As things stand that will change this summer, when the 21-year-old will have just one year left on his contract.
“Reports in Germany are that he has rejected a new deal, leaving Leipzig in that awkward position of cashing in or risking losing Upamecano for nothing. If that is the case Arsenal clearly have cause for hope.
“They have laid the groundwork for some time and Upamecano dreams of a move to the Premier League.”
It remains to be seen if the Gunners are able to get a deal done for Upamecano as reports suggest they could face competition for his signature from La Liga giants Barcelona.
Zealadmol.sport.blog. 