Report explains why Solskjaer turned down Man Utd deal for Upamecano

Dayot Upamecano RB Leipzig goal

Dayot Upamecano was given a clear route to sign for Bayern Munich this summer after a report explained why Manchester United ‘opted out’ of a move to sign the Frenchman.

United are long-term admirers of Upamecano, who will complete a move from RB Leipzig to Bayern this summer.

The centre-back will move to Bayern for a fee in the region of £37m after the Bundesliga champions met his exit clause. 

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has long hunting for a new centre-half and, for the price, Upamecano looked like he fitted the bill.

However, they ultimately decided to pursue alternatives, with one big factor swaying their decision.

And ESPN claim it was Solskjaer’s ‘desire to sign a left-footed centre-back’ that saw United rule themselves out of the race for the Frenchman.

Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof both use their right feet. As such, Solskjaer is intent on only spending big money to sign a left footer to compliment captain Maguire.

Upamecano’s ‘representatives were informed of Solskjaer’s prerequisites’. And their stance left Bayern with a free run to sign the defender.

It’s the second time United have opted against signing Upamecano. This report claims they could have signed him for a snip back in 2015.


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Leipzig chief explains Upamecano sale

On losing Upamecano, RB Leipzig chief executive Oliver Mintzlaff offered a pragmatic response.

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“Of course, we would have liked to keep Dayot Upamecano at RB Leipzig,” Mintzlaff said. “However, Dayot indicated to us very fairly and in good time that he would like a new challenge this summer. He wanted to take the next step.

“Dayot has shown outstanding development during his time in Leipzig. This is exemplary for our philosophy of finding young talents and consistently bringing them to the top level.

“Dayot has been and remains an important factor in our success. FC Bayern can look forward to an outstanding footballer and great person.”

In announcing the deal, Bayern announced he has agreed a five-year deal.

“Dayot Upamecano (22, RB Leipzig) will play for FC Bayern Munich from July 1, 2021.

“The defensive player and the German record champions agreed on a five-year collaboration until June 30, 2026.”

The club’s sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic also expressed his delight.

“We are happy that we were able to win Dayot Upamecano for FC Bayern Munich.

“We’re convinced Dayot will be a very important component for our team in the years ahead.”

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