Frenchman admits to club board not leaving Barcelona sooner was a mistake as Man Utd offer turned down.
This summer, Barcelona orchestrated a number of really difficult departures, notably Riqui Puig’s. The club hasn’t yet discovered a remedy for Samuel Umtiti’s predicament.
The fact that the center-back has no bids on the table with 15 days left in the transfer window worries the Blaugranas right now. Clubs have inquired about his availability, but no follow-up has been received from the parties involved.
SPORT says that Umtiti has been contacted by a number of teams to assess his playing style and physical condition. Barcelona and the player, though, both declined, citing a lack of respect.
The Frenchman is ready to depart even on loan now that he has fully recovered.
Given Umtiti’s recent struggles with fitness, it makes sense that clubs would want assurances about his comeback.
The French international was on the verge of joining Rennes earlier in the transfer window. The Ligue 1 team withdrew at the last minute because they were unconvinced about his fitness. Lyon seem to be in the greatest position to sign him right now.
Umtiti started just one league game for Barcelona last year, but he failed to keep the scoreless. His contract until 2026 will be a major roadblock in any negotiations, whether he transfers on a loan or a permanent basis.
