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Dayot Upamecano: The man to take Chelsea’s defence into a new era
Chelsea have made a perfect start to the Maurizio Sarri era.
Many fans expected a turbulent season at Stamford Bridge following a summer-long saga surrounding the future of Antonio Conte. Lifting the FA Cup wasn’t enough for the Italian who was eventually dismissed following weeks of speculation. His replacement, Sarri, wasn’t given much time with his new players or to strengthen in the transfer window.
The ex-Napoli boss has hit the ground running in the Premier League despite his late arrival with Chelsea winning all five of their opening fixtures. Their results leave them second in the Premier League table behind Liverpool on goal difference. The Blues face a crucial month in September with fixtures against the Reds scheduled in the next few weeks.
With Sarri given limited time in the summer, expect the chequebook to open when January rolls around. With Gary Cahill’s contract expiring, a new defender could be on his shortlist. One man he should consider is RB Leipzig wonderkid – Dayot Upamecano.
Valued at £27m by Transfermarkt, the Frenchman is widely regarded as one of the hottest prospects in the Bundesliga after breaking into the Leipzig first-team. Despite being just 19-years-old, Upamecano made 28 appearances in the league to help his side secure European football again next season. He has been tipped to follow Naby Keita in a big-money move to the Premier League.
The youngster is blessed with terrific pace for a defender which combined with his immense strength makes for a frightening prospect. Upamecano is also great on the ball and a huge aerial presence meaning he would have no issues in adapting to life in the Premier League. He averaged two tackles, more than any other Chelsea centre-back, and two interceptions per game last season highlighting the steel he would add to the back line.
Leipzig would demand a huge fee for their prized asset, but the price may just be worth it.
Chelsea fans, thoughts?
