Tottenham and Arsenal-linked Dayot Upamecano discusses future at RB Leipzig

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Dayot Upamecano has developed the reputation among European football as one of the best, young centre-backs on the market – and he has given an update on his future in an interview with Foot Mercato, amid links with Arsenal and Tottenham.

The Daily Mail has claimed that 21-year-old Upamecano’s stunning form has attracted interest from both Spurs and The Gunners. He has a release clause at RB Leipzig worth £50million – a fee that would be affordable for both north London sides.

Despite his tender age, Upamecano has already clocked up more than 100 appearances for Leipzig as he continues to remain first choice under Julian Nagelsmann. He has a contract at Leipzig until the summer of 2021.

Asked about his future, Upamecano stated that he is happy at Leipzig and is keen to reach his goals with the club. However, he stated it is ‘flattering’ to be linked with clubs such as Arsenal – and will discuss his future this summer.

“I feel very good in Leipzig. I love my teammates, the staff and my club. For the moment, I am still on contract until 2021. I have a duty to continue to train well and make my matches,” Upamecano said.

“Even if I know there are clubs that want me, that’s for sure, I keep my feet on the ground. I continue my work. We will discuss my future at the end of the season with my agents and my family.

“Of course,” Upamecano added, when asked if he is flattered. “But as I told you, I’m in Leipzig and I want to reach my goals with the club. I don’t want to talk about anything else yet. I want to finish the season well with Leipzig and nothing else.”

TBR’s view – Upamecano would be a stunning signing for £50million

Both Arsenal and Tottenham need a central defender for different reasons. Jan Vertonghen looks set to leave Spurs, while David Luiz, Sokratis and Shkodran Mustafi have underperformed this season.

Upamecano not only has age on his side, but the Frenchman has enormous pace at the back. He can also have the ball at his feet, and is easily worth his release clause. Whether he wants to leave Leipzig this summer, though is another question.

At the figure of his exit clause, Spurs and Arsenal would be landing a bargain.