Barcelona are not worried about Samuel Umtiti’s future at the club despite mounting speculation linking the centre-back with a move to Manchester United.
“I have not followed Umtiti’s statements,” manager Ernesto Valverde said ahead of the first leg of Barcelona’s Champions League quarter-final against Roma. “What I understand, and I know, is that he is very happy here and we are very happy with him.
“We hope the negotiations will come to fruition and that he will be able to continue for many years here.”
The Frenchman has a relatively low release clause of just €60 million, prompting speculation that a club could prise him away from the Nou Camp, although Umtiti himself has claimed that he is happy in Catalonia.
However, the defender is aware of the speculation, and as neither side have begun talks over a new deal that could see a much bigger release clause inserted, the rumours are set to continue.
