Lyon is ‘number 1 choice’ for Samuel Umtiti (28), with OGC Nice also interested | OneFootball

According to Foot Mercato, four clubs are interested in the signature of Samuel Umtiti (28), who is set to leave Barcelona in a fire-sale to generate cash. Lyon are considered the ‘number 1 choice’ for Umtiti, with OGC Nice and Girona also interested in the 2018 World Cup winner.

A return to Lyon is looking increasingly likely for Umtiti, as Barcelona manager Xavi will not feature the French international in his plans for next season. With a current salary that is currently disproportionate to his Barcelona game time (or lack-of), many clubs are struggling to match the player’s demands. It is safe to say that Umtiti is struggling to find a new home.

In any case, the 28-year-old, who has never quite recovered from the knee injury he battled through to help France win the World Cup in 2018, is going to leave Barcelona. Having signed a contract extension earlier this year so as to help the club with their wage bill, he has again suffered fitness issues this season and made just the one appearance. The Catalan press are indicating there could be a contract termination, although the likelier option is a loan move.

Recently promoted Girona in Spain are interested in the player’s profile, with sporting director Pere Guardiola (brother of Manchester City manager Pep) having opened the door publicly to Umtiti. In Italy, Fiorentina are also said to be interested.

Whichever club Umtiti finds himself at – there is no doubt that he will have to make major concessions in terms of his salary.