RB Leipzig sporting director Ralf Rangnick has confirmed that the Bundesliga side have signed Dayot Upamecano from Red Bull Salzburg. There has been speculation that the Frenchman could join either Arsenal or Barcelona but Leipzig were always front runners because of their close connections with Salzburg.
Rangnick actually signed Upamecano for Salzburg when he was sporting director there back in 2015 and it seems that the two sides, both effectively owned by Red Bull, have had a deal in place for a while. Speaking to Kicker about Upamecano’s signing, Rangnick said:
“We are delighted that he has decided to change to us despite numerous offers from top international clubs to make his next career move. Dayot will be able to strengthen our squad qualitatively in the short term.”
The fee is believed to be €10million or close to £9million. The 18 year old has only really had six months playing in the Austrian Bundesliga after being sent out on loan to first division club FC Liefering last campaign. The centre back has made 21 appearances in all competitions for Salzburg this season.
It is expected that Upamecano will make his debut for Leipzig in a friendly match against Rangers on Sunday.
