Chelsea looking into deal for French centre-back

Chelsea could reportedly compete with Arsenal in the race to sign Dayot Upamecano from RB Leipzig in the next transfer window.

The central defender has less than 12 months remaining on his contract with the German club and so far, he has shown no desire to extend his stay.

As a result, Leipzig will be tempted to sanction his sale in the coming months and ESPN claims that the Blues have joined the Gunners in the player's pursuit.

Upamecano currently has a £53m release clause on his contract with the Bundesliga outfit, but none of the clubs are interested in meeting the figure, given the current length of his contract.

It is added that Leipzig could be compelled to accept a lesser fee of around £36m for his sale and it is claimed that the Blues may have the upper hand over the Gunners as they could propose a better financial package.

Upamecano has made 36 appearances for Leipzig this term. He could still have a key role to play for them in the Champions League where they have already progressed to the quarter-final stage.