‘One of the most exciting central defenders in the world’ – Per Mertesacker heaps praise on Arsenal target Dayot Upamecano
Dayot Upamecano is one of the hottest properties in Europe and all eyes will be on Frenchman as RB Leipzig take on PSG in the Champions League semi-final on Tuesday evening – live on talkSPORT.
The 21-year-old has caught the eye of a number of the top clubs on the continent for his imperious displays at the back this season, with Arsenal among several clubs said to be considering an offer this summer.
Leipzig defender Upamecano was as solid as a rock in the quarter-final against Atleti
And Gunners academy chief Per Mertesacker, who spent seven years at the Emirates from 2011-2018, has done little to silence speculation linking the centre-back with a move to north London.
In fact, Mertesacker has waxed lyrical about Upamecano, insisting he is one of best defenders in the world following his man-of-the-match display against Atletico Madrid last time out.
Listen to RB Leipzig vs PSG on talkSPORT at 8pm on Tuesday
The German, speaking to Goal and DAZN, was very impressed with his performance in 2-1 victory and even and likened him to former Bayern Munich defender Lucio.
“I was very excited about the Atletico game,” he said. “He showed so much and did it right: the courage of a Lucio who just goes forward, but also my solid game of simply finding the right man or withdrawing.
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“If he continues like this, works on himself and remains consistent, he will generate more interest. He’s definitely one of the most exciting central defenders the world has to offer right now.
“RB certainly made the contract extension very tasty for him. It’s exciting to see where his path is going.’
Despite Arsenal’s interest Upamecano, the Gunners are believed to be close to sealing a move for Lille defender Gabriel Magalhaes.
The Daily Mail report that the Gunners have beaten Manchester United, Everton and Napoli in the race to sign Gabriel.
They are said to have agreed a £22million deal for Gabriel, who impressed with Lille in the shortened Ligue 1 season.
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