Manchester United are reportedly plotting a shock €50 million bid for Barcelona superstar Samuel Umtiti, who is also a Manchester City target.
According to a report by French outlet Le 10 Sport, Manchester United are showing an interest in making a late move for Samuel Umtiti. The Premier League heavyweights are lining up a €50 million bid for the Barcelona defender, who is also being tailed by local rivals Manchester City.
Umtiti arrived at Barcelona in the summer of 2016, rated as one of the best defensive prospects in the world. But, in the three years he has been at Camp Nou, the Frenchman’s spell has been blighted by injuries, restricting his game time considerably.
The same was prevalent last season when a knee injury saw Clement Lenglet usurp him as the first-choice partner for Gerard Pique even after recovering from his fitness troubles. But, Umtiti remains highly regarded across Europe, with Manchester United interested in signing the Barcelona star.
The interest from Manchester United comes as a bit of a surprise though, seeing as Harry Maguire is believed to be on the verge of joining them. With a number of central defenders already at Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s disposal, it will create a major issue for the Red Devils to offload a few centre-backs.
Nevertheless, a player like Umtiti could potentially boost a vulnerable defensive unit. Manchester United though, face stiff competition from local rivals Manchester City in pursuit of the Barcelona defender, with the Premier League champions looking to replace Vincent Kompany.
But, Manchester United are ready to take a decisive step in the race to sign the 25-year-old, if Le 10 Sport are to be believed. The report suggests that the Red Devils are ready to table a €50 million bid and even though Barcelona want €60 million in exchange for his services, the Blaugrana are open to doing business with them.
The French outlet do not outline the figure that Manchester City are prepared to shell out, and it remains to be seen if they are prepared to outdo their rivals. As for Barcelona, selling Umtiti does not make a great deal of sense, especially considering they have not been linked with any centre-back lately.
With Jean-Clair Todibo the only other centre-back at Ernesto Valverde’s disposal, selling Umtiti could hurt the Catalans. It now remains to be seen if Barcelona offload the Frenchman to either of his long-time suitors, with Manchester United plotting a €50 million bid for him.
