Bayern Munich are leading the race to sign Dayot Upamecano with the European champions in the ‘driving seat’ for the RB Leipzig defender after Manchester United ‘cooled their interest’.
Upamecano has emerged as one of the most coveted young players in world football in recent seasons following a series of impressive performances for Leipzig, forming part of the side which reached the semi-finals of the Champions League last season and breaking into the France squad.
The 22-year-old has been linked with a host of Europe’s leading clubs and possesses a release clause in his contract that will become active next summer, the €42m figure an attractive deal for sides seeking to strengthen at centre-back.
According to The Athletic, Bayern Munich have emerged as the favourites to sign the defender from their Bundesliga rivals with the Bavarians now in the ‘driving seat’ after interest from the Premier League cooled.
Manchester United had been amongst the frontrunners to sign the France international, though it is understood that Upamecano is now not a ‘primary target’ for the Red Devils as they bid to strengthen their defensive options next summer.
Bayern are also keen to strengthen at centre-back with both Jerome Boateng and David Alaba expected to leave the club at the end of the season, a contract offer having been withdrawn for the latter who has been linked with the likes of Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea.
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