Manchester United could potentially trigger Dayot Upamecano’s £38 million release clause that becomes active next summer.
According to The Times, Manchester United could yet be a potential destination for Dayot Upamecano next summer. The RB Leipzig star, who has emerged as one of the most sought-after defenders in Europe, following his meteoric rise to prominence, might finally leave the Bundesliga, with his contract expiring in 2023.
Manchester United were linked with a move to sign Upamecano in the summer, but his reported release clause of £45 million meant that the defender had to stay put at RB Leipzig. That said, the same report now states that the Frenchman’s release clause could decrease by a small margin next summer, rounding up to £38 million.
It should allow Manchester United to come back for the centre-back, who was, in fact, close to securing a dream move to Old Trafford back in 2015. Unfortunately, the Red Devils refused to meet the £700,000 asking price for the then-Valenciennes prospect as RB Leipzig’s sister club, RB Salzburg, eventually snapped him up two weeks later.
Since then, Upamecano has gone from strength to strength, becoming one of the best central defenders in Europe. The 22-year-old has flourished especially under the leadership of Julian Nagelsmann, who has one of the best footballing minds in the world.
The young RB Leipzig coach is primarily known for implementing various tactical setups during the course of the game. He also emphasises on the use of data analysis, which has been reflected in the club’s training sessions as well. It has ultimately transformed Upamecano into a defensive lynchpin for Die Roten Bullen.
The Frenchman could thus be an asset for the Manchester United defence that has lacked steel this season, despite attaining a rather impressive record last term. Their captain Harry Maguire has had difficulties dealing with the scrutiny coming his way while the likes of Eric Bailly and Victor Lindelof have both lacked consistency.
Upamecano, in that regard, could add another dimension to the United backline with his brilliant range of passing. It is combined with his pace and an imposing presence at the back, thus making him an ideal partner alongside Maguire, who excels in the physical and aerial aspect of the game.
A fee of £38 million is also relatively cheap for a player of his calibre, especially considering the current inflation in the transfer market. Upamecano, therefore, is certainly a viable target for the Red Devils.
