After trying desperately for a number of years, FC Barcelona finally seem to have found suitors for their out-of-favor defender, Samuel Umtiti. After a number of underwhelming seasons, the player has finally found form during the last season at Lecce, and top clubs are now more open to putting their trust in him.
Despite his productive loan spell at Lecce during the last season, Umtiti is not expected to continue at FC Barcelona in any way. After the loan last summer, the Catalans are now looking for a more permanent solution, and looking for teams who will buy the player on a permanent basis. The club would give their approval for a sale, even if they receive only a minimal fee.
Previously, Olympique Lyonnais were reported to be interested in signing the player that had risen to prominence with them initially. Now, a recent report from SPORT claims that two new suitors have emerged for the central defender, both from Saudi Arabia.
The player is also tempted by these offers from the Middle East, and would contemplate accepting an offer if a satisfactory financial arrangement can be made.
This latest news is in contrast to earlier reports that the player wants to remain playing at a top level, and join a big European club. Two Italian teams have reportedly been interested in him, particularly Roma and Inter Milan, but nothing has materialized from this interest.
As already mentioned, Lyonnais was another competitive option for Umtiti, but the offer from Saudi Arabia can change plans for the player.
Thus, whichever team Umtiti ultimately joins, FC Barcelona will be open to letting him go as they just do not have any space for another central defender, and will be more than happy to lighten their wage bill.
