There could be some doubts regarding whether Arsenal make a successful move for Dayot Upamecano once the transfer window opens, according to Bleacher Report.
Dean Jones has written that whilst the centre-back wants to leave Red Bull Leipzig and further his career at a bigger club, a switch to north London may be out of the question as things currently stand.
The Gunners are thought to be keen not to rush into the transfer market amid the current global situation and whilst the 21-year-old could be available for a smidgen just under £50m, it is said Mikel Arteta’s side will need to find a smart way to move for the enforcer.
With Upamecano’s contract at Red Bull Leipzig set to expire in 2021 (as per TransferMarkt), now could be the best time for Arsenal to try and bring in a defender that has all the potential of improving their fragile backline.
The France Under-21 international has been an impressive enforcer in Bundesliga football and has shown he has the ability to play in Europe’s top leagues. When looking at his historical defensive data, it’s rather clear why a club like the Gunners are interested and have continued to scout him.
Upamecano’s figures have continued to improve at a rather steady pace during his time with the German outfit. His debut campaign (2016/17) saw him achieve averages of 1.7 tackles, 2.4 interceptions and 3.6 clearances per game in his 12 outings, before featuring 28 times the next season and recording averages of two, two and 4.9 respectively (per WhoScored).
The 2018/19 Bundesliga campaign was perhaps a blip for the 21-year-old as he managed just 1.5 tackles, 2.2 interceptions and 2.9 clearances in 15 fixtures, however he appears to have put that behind him this year with averages of 2.1, 1.7 and 3.3 in 21 games so far (per WhoScored).
Indeed, when compared to what Arteta currently has available to him at Arsenal (based on the current Premier League campaign), those figures would rank Upamecano as their second-best tackler, second-best interceptor and joint-fifth clearance maker – interestingly ranking higher than the current crop of centre-backs at the Emirates in the two former categories (WhoScored).
Thus, it would be a shame if Arsenal were unable to get a deal done for the 21-year-old as it would seem he has the potential and ability to immediately help and improve their backline, whilst appearing to have the talent to get better as each season passes by.
Considering Red Bull Leipzig are in a position whereby they can likely get one final chance to demand big-money for their prized asset, who is currently valued at £45m by TransferMarkt, the Gunners might not want to hang around for too long and look to make that smart move for Upamecano in the near future.
Arsenal fans, do you think the club need to make a move for Upamecano as soon as possible? Let us know below!
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