Jump directly to the content
Gossip
UP AND OUT

Barcelona, Arsenal and Manchester United target Dayot Upamecano has a £89m release clause in his RB Leipzig

The RB Leipzig centre-half has become one of the most wanted men in Europe after his performances for the Bundesliga side

BARCELONA and Arsenal have been boosted in their pursuit of Dayot Upamecano after it was revealed he has an £89m release clause.

The RB Leipzig defender has become one of the hottest commodities in Europe with the German side and is wanted by a host of clubs.

 Barcelona and Arsenal have been boosted in their pursuit of Dayot Upamecano
6
Barcelona and Arsenal have been boosted in their pursuit of Dayot UpamecanoCredit: Rex Features

Premier League duo the Gunners and Manchester United have both been linked with the 19-year-old star.

Italian side AC Milan have also been linked with a mega-money move for the former Red Bull Salzburg ace.

However, it is La Liga giants Barca who appear to be leading the race to snap-up Upamecano from the Bundesliga outfit.

And Spanish newspaper SPORT now claim that Ernesto Valverde's efforts to bring him to the Nou Camp have received a shot in the arm after discovering his release fee.

 The 19-year-old Frenchman has a buy-out clause of around £89m
6
The 19-year-old Frenchman has a buy-out clause of around £89mCredit: Rex Features
 RB Leipzig defender Dayot Upamecano has attracted interest from a host of clubs
6
RB Leipzig defender Dayot Upamecano has attracted interest from a host of clubsCredit: Getty Images - Getty

With age starting to take its toll on Javier Mascherano and injuries blighting Thomas Vermaelen, Gerard Pique and Samuel Umtiti are the only real regular defenders at Valverde's disposal.

He is desperately trying to bring in reinforcements to his squad and has identified Leipzig's Upamecano as his No1 choice.


PAT ATTACK Evra does a Cantona and KICKS Marseille fan in the head


Despite the interest from the big boys, the player himself is refusing to fuel the flames of speculation.

When questioned over his future recently, he tried to dampen Barca's expectations of signing him.

He told Bild: "The interest of the big clubs honours me, but at the moment, only Leipzig counts.

"I have to work hard to reach my goals later."

Reports claimed earlier this week that Jose Mourinho's United were ready to battle it out with Milan in January for him.

The Reds have been closely tracking the progress of the youngster for the past two seasons, according to Calciomercato.

 Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde wants the star at the Nou Camp
6
Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde wants the star at the Nou CampCredit: AP:Associated Press
 Barca are looking for a replacement for Javier Mascherano
6
Barca are looking for a replacement for Javier MascheranoCredit: AP:Associated Press
 Arsene Wenger also wants his fellow Frenchman at the Emirates
6
Arsene Wenger also wants his fellow Frenchman at the EmiratesCredit: PA:Press Association

He has fast become one of Europe's top defenders since completing an £8.8m switch from Salzburg in January.

Liverpool have also been previously linked with the Frenchman.

BET £10 GET A FREE £30 BET WITH SUN BETS


Keep updated with the latest transfer news from the Premier League and around the world in SunSport's transfer blog


Full Saturday Premier League preview including West Ham v Liverpool and Stoke v Leicester
Topics