Pranav Nair
Manchester United interested in RB Leipzig star Dayot Upamecano
According to ESPN, Manchester United are interested in RB Leipzig star Dayot Upamecano.
The Frenchman has been identified by United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to reinforce his defence. The Red Devils are closing in on making Ajax Amsterdam star Donny van de Beek their first transfer of the summer.
With the Jadon Sancho deal hitting an impasse, United are now directing their focus elsewhere.
At the top of the list is a centre-back to partner skipper Harry Maguire. Upamecano despite being just 21 continues to enhance his reputation as one of the best in the business.
The 21-year-old was one of the leading figures for Leipzig as they made it all the way to the UEFA Champions League semifinals.
Upamecano’s deal with the Germans runs until 2023. According to the report, it includes a release clause of €42million, which can be triggered at the end of the 2020-21 season.
Solskajer however is not willing to wait and wants to sign the player in this window itself. There is a real belief from the Untied end that a deal can be agreed upon before the window closes on October 5.
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Apart from Maguire, United lack a consistent, fit defender they can rely on. Victor Lindelof is inconsistent while Eric Bailly gets frequently injured.
United also expect to offload a number of their defenders this summer. The likes of Marcos Rojo, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are all heading for the exit door at Old Trafford.
