£55m Arsenal target threatens to force his way out of Bundesliga club

Arsenal-linked RB Leipzig defender Dayot Upamecano has threatened to submit a transfer request if his £55million release clause is not met this summer, according to reports.

The 21-year-old has become one of Europe’s most sought-after defenders after a stunning season in the Bundesliga and the Gunners reportedly made a bid last summer.

Indeed, Upamecano has revealed that there is serious interest in his signature as the speculation over his future in the German top flight mounts.

According to German news outlet Bild (via The Sun), Upamecano is desperate to take the step to the next level and is prepared to force through a move if his release clause – which decreases each season – is not met.

Arsenal have been heavily linked with a move alongside Tottenham, Bayern Munich and Barcelona.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta took steps to improve his side’s leaky defence during his first transfer window in charge, bringing in Pablo Mari and Cedric Soares on loan.

While Soares is expected to move back to Southampton at the end of the season, Arsenal are likely to exercise the option to buy in Mari’s loan deal, with William Saliba also set to join from St Etienne.

 

 

Tottenham, meanwhile, have Toby Alderweireld and rising star Japhet Tanganga but with Jan Vertonghen open to leaving when his contract expires on June 30, there could be space for a new top-class defender.

In other news, Sao Paulo’s executive manager has revealed that Arsenal tried to sign Brazil Under-23 defender Walce before moving for Mari.

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