Serie A minnows willing to make efforts to sign Barcelona defender in €4 million deal

Samuel Umtiti is one of many returning players at Barcelona who may not have any future at Camp Nou this summer.

Although Barcelona are very impressed by his performances in Serie A, they are not considering him as part of the team next season and are actively looking for suitors.

However, according to Diario SPORT, Barça might not have to look far and beyond to find suitors for Umtiti, as Lecce themselves have showcased the desire to sign him on a permanent deal in the coming summer.

Should the Italian club survive relegation this season, Lecce will make an effort to go after the Frenchman, even though they admit the operation could be very difficult.

Lecce believe the total cost of the operation could be about €4 million, in addition to the player’s wages. Umtiti, for his part, is aware of the fact that he has been courted by various top clubs across Europe, including AC Milan and AS Roma, but he knows he has a place at Lecce too.

The Italian club have played a key role in his rapid revival in Seria A, offering him game-time, support and recognition. The player has repaid the faith as well, playing a crucial role at the back and establishing himself as one of the most impressive defenders in Serie A this term.

However, as mentioned earlier, whether or not Umtiti will remain at Lecce could largely depend on the club’s ability to remain in the top flight. As things stand, the minnows are two points clear of safety.

But with three matches still left to be played, Lecce cannot afford to be complacent and drop points. A win in either of these three matches could be enough for the club to secure safety. Only then, they may think about pursuing a permanent deal for Umtiti this summer.