RB Leipzig snap up Upamecano from Salzburg

RB Leipzig have announced the signing of France youth international Dayot Upamecano from Red Bull Salzburg.

The 18-year-old defender has put pen to paper on a four-and-a-half-year deal after a reported initial fee of €10million was agreed between the clubs.

“We are delighted that Dayot decided to join us to make the next step in his career, despite several offers from top international clubs,” Leipzig sporting director Ralf Rangnick said via the club’s official website.

“We are convinced that Dayot can already be a reinforcement for the first-team squad in the near future.

“Dayot has shown a great deal of promise for his age and we think he will fit in perfectly with the philosophy of the club.”

Dayot #Upamecano has signed for #DieRotenBullen from @RedBullSalzburg! The 18-year old has signed a contract until June pic.twitter.com/PpMCFqrfUQ

— RB Leipzig English (@RBLeipzig_EN) January 13, 2017

Upamecano had been linked with a number of major European sides, most prominently Barcelona, although Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, Arsenal and Manchester United were also reportedly interested.

The centre-back, who has represented France from Under-16 through to U-19 level, has made 21 appearances this season for Salzburg.

Our new signing Dayot #Upamecano is already getting involved with his new teammates!  #DieRotenBullen pic.twitter.com/xl6eAmf3Qu

— RB Leipzig English (@RBLeipzig_EN) January 13, 2017