Southampton target Dayot Upamecano has reported release clause of £90.3m

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New Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl was always going to be linked with some of his former RB Leipzig crew after taking over at St Mary’s. Today, it is Dayot Upamecano who has been linked with a move to Southampton.

The Daily Mirror reports in its print edition (11/12/2018; pg 53) that Southampton are targeting the Frenchman as a potential new signing to strengthen the Saints poor defence.

That report suggests a fee in the region of £30 million for the player.

It is obviously an exciting report for Southampton. That sort of price would seem just about in their price range, especially as they fight for survival.

Unfortunately, it would seem an unlikely deal. Upamecano is considered one of the best prospects at Leipzig, who are hoping to build a side that can one day win the Bundesliga title.

Part of that plan revolves around developing the young talent they bring in. The former Valenciennes and Red Bull Salzburg player is one such talent.

So, when he arrived at the club from their Austrian brethren in 2017, Leipzig slapped a massive release clause in his deal. As reported by Bild, the German side set a €100 million (£90.3 million) clause into his deal as they new big clubs would come calling.

It was not just put there as a deterrent. Considering his age, ability and Leipzig’s financial clout, that is the valuation they have set on the player.

It would mean Southampton breaking the world record fee for a defender that Liverpool smashed to sign Virgil van Dijk from the Saints last January.

Hopefully, Leipzig are ready to settle for much less. However, it seems unlikely.