Report: Arsenal have bid rejected for RB Leipzig defender Dayot Upamecano

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Arsenal have had a €60 million/£55 million bid for Dayot Upamecano rejected.

That’s according to German publication Bild, who claim the Gunners have made an attempt to strengthen their defence ahead of Thursday’s transfer deadline.

RB Leipzig defender Upamecano has been previously linked with a move to the Emirates, but there has never been anything to follow that until now.

The Frenchman is viewed as one of the best young talents in the Bundesliga, and last term formed part of one of the most resolute defences in the division.

The 20-year-old has been with Leipzig since 2017 after moving from Red Bull Salzburg, and has made 75 appearances for the club so far.

TBR’s view

If Arsenal have indeed bid for Upamecano as Bild claim, then one would assume the Gunners will be seeking to secure a downpayment for the player with the rest of the money to come in installments – as is reportedly the case with the Nicolas Pepe deal.

If Arsenal end up successful in their pursuit of Upamecano – a France U21 international – then they’ll have a real gem on their hands.

The starlet is a fantastic prospect and has been linked with a host of clubs since arriving in German football.

Last term alongside the highly rated Ibrahima Konate, Upamecano wowed with his solidity at the back and ball-playing abilities.

According to Bundesliga.com, Upamecano won 62.5% of his tackles and completed 86% of his passes, suggesting Arsenal really are looking at a superb young player.