According to Don Balon, Manchester United want to sign Barcelona centre-back Samuel Umtiti at the end of the 2017-18 campaign.
United boss Jose Mourinho is expected to be in the market for a new central defender at the end of the current season.
Phil Jones and Chris Smalling have been impressive for the club in recent weeks, but both struggled against Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League on Wednesday night.
Eric Bailly is regarded as United’s number one centre-back, but the Ivorian has been out of action since November, whilst Victor Lindelof has not convinced following his move from Benfica ahead of the new season.
According to Don Balon, Mourinho has identified Barcelona’s Umtiti as his leading target, and the Portuguese is confident of landing the Frenchman in this summer’s transfer window.
How likely is the deal?
Umtiti has a £52.7m release clause in his current Barcelona deal, and United would have no problem meeting that price at the end of the season.
Barcelona, as expected, are desperate to sign the centre-back to a new contract, but talks with the 24-year-old have stalled as the two parties struggle to come to an agreement.
The defender has a contract at Camp Nou until the summer of 2021, although it is understood that he wants improved terms following an excellent run of form.
Umtiti joined Barcelona from Lyon in the summer of 2016, and the centre-back made 43 appearances in all competitions during his first season at the club.
This term, Umtiti has made 23 appearances in all competitions, and his form has seen him recognised as one of the best defenders in European football.
Barcelona will be confident of securing the future of one of their brightest talents, but United are seemingly keeping a close eye on developments as they prepare what would be an incredible swoop.
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