Barcelona could offload one of their most highly-paid players during January amid interest from three clubs of the Premier League.
Barcelona central defender Samuel Umtiti has fallen out of favour and down in the pecking order at the Camp Nou since the last season. The former Lyon player was touted to be one of the world’s best defenders with the La Liga giants and was superb between 2016 and 2018, but then consistent injuries took a toll and deteriorated his quality.
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In his absence, Ernesto Valverde was able to count on Clement Lenglet to be Gerard Pique’s partner in the heart of defence. Samuel Umtiti is no more wanted by the Blaugrana because he occupies a large chunk of wages at the club despite not playing and even the defender himself has revealed desires of wanting to leave in search of regular minutes.
Fox Sports has reported that three Premier League teams are interested in offering the France international a way out of the Camp Nou. Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United have been identified as the clubs being credited with interest in Umtiti and his transfer may be completed during the winter’s transfer window in January.
Chelsea have had their transfer ban lifted and will be able to sign players in the winter. Frank Lampard’s side lacks an experienced centre back, so with the season getting busier, he would not want to rely on just Kurt Zouma and the other few. Hence, the Blues would be interested in pursuing a move for Umtiti, who will surely be a starter at the Stamford Bridge.
Manchester City on the other hand have lost Aymeric Laporte to a long-term injury whilst also not having replaced Vincent Kompany. The Citizens have left the signing of a central defender to be a long overdue task which may finally be completed in January, with Pep Guardiola turning to his former employers for assistance.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side does not have a very grave need for a defender, but if they can sign Umtiti, he would definitely be an upgrade from Victor Lindelof to play alongside Harry Maguire. But with ongoing struggles domestically and continentally, it is difficult to see the Barca man choosing the Old Trafford as his destination between the three options.
Where do you think Samuel Umtiti should go to if he ends up leaving the Camp Nou in January?