Umtiti staying at Barca looking more and more likely

Lecces's Sporting Director Pantaleo Corcino confirmed a few weeks ago that they're completely open to Samuel Umtiti staying at the Italian side next season. However, the Frenchman's future could lie in Barcelona.

According to 'Sport', the Catalan side board's main aim is to end the defender's contract by mutual agreement. However, everything is pointing towards the ex-Lyon man rejecting that. Therefore, they're thinking about the possibility of extending his contract.

If Umtiti rejects breaking his ties with Barca, the Catalan side will renew his contract for another season, but splitting his salary over more seasons and therefore helping them to reduce next season's wage bill.

As for the French international, he would love to return to the Spanish side. What's more, the player himself said to the board that he thinks he would be a good option if the Catalans end up not being able to make more signings in summer.

The 2018 World Cup winner will be listening to offers when he knows he's got no place at the Camp Nou. According to the source, Ligue 1 already have a plethora of sides who are interested and Italy have been pleasantly surprised with his performances, and there could be a bit of a waiting list for the player.