Dayot Upamecano is one of the most sought-after players in Europe (Getty Images)
According to Spanish publication AS (h/t The Mirror), Real Madrid are keen on signing RB Leipzig star Dayot Upamecano in the summer.
Upamecano, 21, came through the ranks of Valenciennes’ youth system and joined RB Salzburg in the summer of 2015. After two impressive seasons in Austria, RB Leipzig snapped him up and the youngster has become an integral member of the Bundesliga side.
Though the Frenchman struggled with a knee injury last term, he has made a tremendous comeback and has helped his side to 3rd position in the league table. He has established himself as one of the most sought-after youngsters in Europe with Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester City also interested in him, as per the report.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid have managed to lift themselves from their dip in form last season since Zinedine Zidane returned for his second stint as manager. Los Blancos have been impressive in all the departments and are currently 2nd in the league table, 2 points behind leaders Barcelona.
Despite performing better than how they did last year, Madrid have been inconsistent on several occasions. The forwards have failed to show up at the right time, with Karim Benzema lacking goals in the latter stages of the season. Luka Jovic and Mariano Diaz have failed to convince the manager too.
The defensive unit has improved a lot under the French tactician. They have conceded just 19 goals so far, which is the best defensive record in La Liga this term, and they have kept 13 clean sheets. Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane have been brilliant in the heart of the defence for the Spanish giants.
However, it is time for Zidane to bring in reinforcements to their backline as Ramos is already 34 and would need to manage his workload. He will need to be at the top of his game to lead Spain in the Euro and the 2022 World Cup. Though Eder Militao is available, he has not yet put in strong performances.
Thus, bring in a defensive signing would be a wise decision by the club and given Dayot Upamecano’s form, Madrid have a good option to boost their options at the back.
The French U21 international is in the form of his life and would undoubtedly be a huge boost to Zidane’s quad. He has helped his side keep 7 clean sheets in the 21 Bundesliga games he has featured so far.
With Ramos already nearing the end of his career and Militao out of form, Real Madrid would be wise to bring in Upamecano to bolster their defensive options. He is just 21 and can also be seen as a long-term prospect as he would definitely add depth to the squad.
