Arsenal joined by Bayern Munich in transfer race for Upamecano as RB Leipzig defender puts in stunning show at Allianz
ARSENAL will reportedly face stiff competition from German champions Bayern Munich in the race to sign Dayot Upamecano from RB Leipzig.
Mikel Arteta's side have been strongly linked with the 21-year-old centre-back - whose £50million release clause will become active in the summer.
And the race is set to hot-up when this season ends.
The defender has 18 months left on his contract - meaning that RB Leipzig are in danger of losing him on a free transfer at the end of next season if they can't agree an extension.
Bayern have made a habit in recent years of signing their German rivals' best players.
These have included Robert Lewandowski, Mats Hummels and Mario Gotze from Borussia Dortmund - as well as Manuel Neuer and Leon Goretzka from Schalke.
Bayern have looked a little light at the back this year, with Jerome Boateng well past his best and Niklas Sule having suffered a serious long-term injury.
And the reigning champions have demanded to be informed should any other club make an approach for Upamecano.
The French U21 international did his value no harm in Sunday night's 0-0 draw between Bayern and Leipzig- although he was lucky to not give away a penalty after kicking Robert Lewandowski in the box,when an offside in the build-up spared his blushes.
Arsenal fans watching the game were impressed with their potential summer signing's performance.
One excitedly wrote: "Upamecano showing exactly why he’s so in demand. Such a tank on the ball, exactly what Arsenal need. Someone who can drive out of the back when needed to."
While another pleaded: "Upamecano has looked very good so far. Sign him up in the summer @Arsenal #AFC".
"Upamecano to Arsenal this summer or we riot," another added.
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The Frenchman has made 24 appearances for RB Leipzig this season as they fight on two fronts for the Bundesliga and Champions League.
His side sit one point behind his potential summer suitors Bayern in the table, with 13 games left to play.
And Arsenal fans wanting a closer look will be able to see him in North London when Leipzig play Spurs in the first leg of their Champions League tie on February 19
Munich are also believed to be interested in his Leipzig team-mate Lukas Klostermann.