As club officials look to reduce the wage bill significantly, several departures this summer are highly likely in Barcelona. There will be a lot of loaned out players who are on the verge of leaving the club, and Samuel Umtiti is one of them. Last summer, Xavi Hernandez sent the Frenchman on loan to Serie A new boys Lecce because he deemed him surplus to requirements.
Thankfully for Barcelona, Umtiti impressed during his time in Serie A. Milan is reportedly interested, but they won’t be the only ones. In a statement, Lecce sporting director Pantaleo Corvino confirmed the club is seeking to resign the 29-year-old.
What did Lecce sporting director say about Umtiti?
He said:
“When you arrive in your first year in Serie A you have to try to create the right mix, a cocktail of experience and youth. For a director, it is a very important aspect, and the arrival of Umtiti responded to this need.
“Let’s see if we have the approval of Barca and the player. If we have the go-ahead from both, that can be explored. Last summer, Umtiti already had the will to choose Lecce.”
Hence it does look like Barcelona will set Umtiti free permanently. Lecce seems to be heavily interested in gaining the Frenchman’s services while AC Milan and several other clubs also on the line. However, what awaits Umtiti’s future, only time will tell. Hence it looks like Umtiti will stay in Serie A for the time being.
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