Umtiti is playing the waiting game

The Barca defender has not yet reached a new agreement at the Catalan club and could be available at a cost of £53million, sparking interest from club hierarchy at Old Trafford.

The rumours have United supporters divided with some excited at the prospect of an Eric Bailly partnership with the defender. However, others are concerned that, after the Sergio Ramos situation in 2015, history may be repeating itself. In Ramos' case, much like Umtiti, it is the player who is holding most of the cards. 

Barcelona acquired Umtiti from Lyon back in 2016 for the relative bargain of £22million, and the defender has proved himself as some of the best value for money that the club had spent. The 24-year-old is also popular amongst both fans and players, and knows that if Barca forces his departure by not meeting his demands, the backlash against the club will be significant. 

Umtiti wants his performance at the club to be reflected in his salary and despite only returning from injury in December, the defender is confident of his capabilities. The player is reportedly keen to stay at Barcelona rather than a transfer, if the right agreement is reached. One thing is for sure, that United will be waiting in the wings to pounce if Barca refuse to renegotiate.