Barcelona set to rival Arsenal for Bundesliga defender

According to The Sun, Barcelona have entered the transfer race for Leipzig centre-back Dayot Upamecano, who has been closely watched by Arsenal.

The Catalans cite the French defender as the replacement for Samuel Umtiti, who is linked with a move to Manchester United.

Upamecano turns out to be one of the best young central defenders in Europe and has been highly influential behind's Leipzig's success in Bundesliga and Champions League this season.

The French U-21 star is valued around £45m by the German club.

Barca are willing to let go of Umtiti after the French defender has failed to engrain a position in the starting elevan, mainly due to the injury concerns.

Meanwhile, Another Catalan defender Jean Clair-Todibo has been linked with an exit from Camp Nou, with Milan and Monaco turning out to be his potential suitors. The 20-year-old has hardly featured for the Blaugrana since his move from Toulouse last year.

Ernesto Valverde has constantly lined up Gerard Pique and Clement Lenglet in the defence this season.