Man United register interest in Barca star Samuel Umtiti

French defender Samuel Umtiti isn’t wanted by Barcelona and Manchester United have registered their interest in the 26-year-old, according to Sport (h/t Express).

The centre-back has struggled for regular games since joining Barca from Lyon. Umtiti has had injury problems since moving to the Nou Camp and this season, has played just 11 games in the league.

The 26-year-old was one of the brightest talents when he left Lyon but faces a lot of competition for places at Barcelona after the arrival of Clement Lenglet.

Manchester United are interested in signing a left-footed centre-back but the report highlights that we haven’t bid for Umtiti yet.

Barca want £43m for Umtiti

Although the Frenchman isn’t wanted by the Catalans, he won’t be allowed to leave on the cheap. Barca want £43m for the 26-year-old and hope a bidding war takes place between three Premier League clubs (h/t Express).

Chelsea and Arsenal are also keen on Umtiti but they also haven’t submitted an official bid, according to the report.

We could do with a quality centre-back joining us, adding to the competition for starting spots. Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire are the first-choice centre-halves but cover for them isn’t all that great.

Phil Jones and Eric Bailly have had their injury problems and haven’t impressed for a while. Chris Smalling, for his part, has performed well on loan at Roma, and it will be interesting to see if he returns to Old Trafford next season.

Spending £43m on Umtiti is a bit of a risk given his injury record. The Frenchman could also find it difficult to adjust to the league.

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