Barcelona looking to offload defender due to wage cut issues

Barcelona were treated to a pleasant surprise immediately after Xavi Hernandez’s arrival as the manager when Samuel Umtiti began to show sparks in training.

The French centre-back is said to have impressed the new manager since the first training session together. Moreover, Xavi is said to have made a special mention of the defender’s good displays in front of the dressing room.

Barcelona’s defence has been in shambles for a considerable time now. While the club have been actively looking to the transfer market for possible reinforcements, an in-form Umtiti could solve all their problems.

However, reports from SPORT say that the tide has now turned. The defender seemed on course to receive more playing time this season, but his future at Barcelona is now again under the uncertainty cloud.

The club are said to be looking for an exit for Umtiti. The latest development comes as a result of problems during the negotiations with the player’s environment.

Barcelona and Umtiti were negotiating a pay-cut, and the two parties failed to reach an agreement. The club want the Frenchman to understand that the slash in wages is necessary for the betterment of both parties.

Umtiti is one of the highest wage -earners in Barcelona after Phillipe Coutinho. His wages come as a huge economic burden on the club as he does not even feature for the club anymore.

Given Barcelona’s difficult situation financially, wage cuts are the need of the hour. All captains have agreed on deals that have seen them lower their salaries.

If Umtiti is indeed reluctant to agree to the same, the best solution for the Catalans would be to sell him.