Dayot Upamecano is one of the most sought-after players in Europe (Getty Images)
According to Le10 Sport (h/t Daily Mail), Barcelona have entered the race to sign RB Leipzig defender Dayot Upamecano.
Upamecano’s impressive displays at the back for the Leipzig has attracted the eyes of the Catalonia side, with Premier League side Arsenal also keen on landing the defender.
Meanwhile, Barcelona boss Quique Setien is on the hunt for some defensive reinforcements ahead of next season. It has not been an entirely satisfactory performance at the back from Barcelona, who have already conceded 31 goals from a total of 27 league games.
Despite being on top of the La Liga table, it has not been an entirely dominant season for the Spanish giants. Second-placed rivals Real Madrid are hot on trails with just two points separating the two.
Madrid have a far better defensive record than their Catalonian foes, conceding just 19 this season – the best in the league. And Setien would be well aware of this as this could harm them in the long run.
Hence, Barcelona boss’ priority to sign a talented and consistent defender does not come as a surprise. Moreover, the long-term fitness of Frenchman Samuel Umtiti still remains a concern for Barcelona.
The defender has so far spent more time on the sidelines than on the pitch since his move from Olympique Lyon in the summer of 2016. Also, Barcelona just have three centre-backs in their mix including Umtiti.
Young defender Clement Lenglet looks well set and has nailed his place down in the side. However, veteran defender Gerard Pique is already 33. Though he still is one of the best defenders in the world, he is way past his prime. All these add up to the fact that Setien and Barcelona clearly need an established centre-back in their ranks in order to remain as one of the best sides in Europe.
Meanwhile, Upamecano has been a standout star at the back for Leipzig. He has been key to the side’s impressive performance this season that has seen them concede just 26 goals from 25 games this season – the lowest by any side in Bundesliga.
Leipzig’s consistent and bankable defence has been one of the reasons for their impressive show this season that has seen them climb to third place in the table. They are now just five points behind leaders Liverpool and one less than second-placed Borussia Dortmund, and Leipzig owes a lot to Upamecano.
Despite being just 21, Upamecano has established himself as a regular due to his consistent displays in the defence. After missing the first four games due to injury he has featured in all their league matches, thus, signifying his worth within the side.
He has also been a part of 11 out of their 14 wins this season, thus proving Barcelona’s interest in him right. Upamecano has been impressive for the German side in the Champions League too, which has seen them advance into the quarterfinals. Hence, roping in a defender of Upamecano’s abilities would be a step in the right direction for Barcelona.
Barcelona have a dearth in defenders and Upamecano would be a perfect fit for a club of their stature. Moreover, he is still young and could progress even further in the coming days if the Catalonians decide to buy him.
