Transfer Centre

Manchester United considering Samuel Umtiti approach?

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 27 June 2019

Manchester United are reportedly considering a move for Barcelona's Samuel Umtiti this summer as their search for a new central defender continues.

Manchester United are reportedly considering an approach for Barcelona centre-back Samuel Umtiti this summer.

The 25-year-old has regularly been linked with a move away from Camp Nou during the current transfer window despite repeatedly stating his desire to stay with the Spanish champions.

Arsenal had been credited with an interest in Umtiti, but Barcelona's asking price is understood to be too high for the Gunners following their failure to qualify for the Champions League.

Mundo Deportivo reports that a switch to the Premier League could still be on the cards, though, with Manchester United mulling over a bid for the France international.

United are desperate to bolster their central defensive options this summer but have been frustrated in their pursuits of Harry Maguire and Kalidou Koulibaly, with both players only available for world-record sums.

Barcelona are more open to the idea of selling Umtiti after he lost his place in the side to compatriot Clement Lenglet during an injury-plagued 2018-19 campaign.

United have already signed Daniel James from Swansea City this summer, while they are on the verge of completing a big-money deal for Crystal Palace full-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka.