English Giants Target Barcelona Centre-Back After Failing To Sign Varane
REUTERS/Vincent West
Samuel Umtiti has attracted the interest of Manchester United, who could go on to sign him, as manager Jose Mourinho continues to look for reinforcements.
The Barcelona defender has put in a string of fine performances, and is a regular now for both club and country. Jose feels he is the best alternative for Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane, who has been on the Portuguese’s wishlist for a long time.
However, with Varane recently signing a new deal for Real Madrid, and with the Frenchman now being a vital cog in the Bernabeu setup for manager Zinedine Zidane, Umtiti looks like a much more feasible option for the Red Devils.
Report in Spanish outlet Don Balon state that Mourinho has turned to Umtiti, as he feels the centre-back could bring solidity and depth in the United defence. The youngster joined Barca last summer from Ligue 1 side Lyon, and has kept up his performances.
REUTERS/Sergio Perez
The Cameroon-born player has already featured in 53 games for the Catalan giants so far, and despite a big money offer, Barca would not be keen to sell a player that has settled down in their team so quickly.
United signed Victor Lindelof this summer, but he has not quite impressed yet, with Mourinho stating that the Swede is getting there slowly. But United’s defence has been a strong unit nonetheless, with Eric Bailly, Phil Jones and Chris Smalling executing Jose’s plan well in central defence.
With Marcos Rojo looking to come back from an injury later this year, and with Daley Blind also in the mix, the Europa League winners have plenty of options in defence. Therefore, it would be highly interesting if they at all go for Umtiti, as Jose’s primary requirement lies in midfield and on the wings.
Written by Rajdeep Saha 
Sports journalist with stints across print, digital and television. Contribution to each medium has been thrilling. Experienced in writing for this passionate game called football. Journalist by choice and passion.