Barça prepared to release Umtiti from his contract if he accepts terms

Barcelona are working against the clock to lighten the squad and, above all, to save on salaries that will allow them to lower the wage bill. Transfers and loan deals are being negotiated, but the club already know that the best way to move on Samuel Umtiti is by cancelling his contract, which runs until 2026. The proposal is already on the table and the player could freely choose his destination with several clubs interested.

The Blaugrana had hoped to be able to negotiate a transfer for Umtiti, but his salary is still a burden for the clubs interested in signing him. In France, it is impossible for them to afford his wages if they have to pay a transfer fee and the same problem is arising in Italy. For Barça, the only solution would be to release him provided that the centre-back waives the money he is due to receive.

Barça's offer has a deadline and it remains to be seen if Umtiti has a good enough proposal that will allow him to recover the money he would no longer receive at the Catalan. It is a complicated situation but the club do not want to put up more money and understand that the conditions for his departure may be met. What is clear to all parties is that his future must be solved before the start of pre-season because the Frenchman knows that he is not in Xavi's plans and the situation would be complicated.

Oympique Lyon are interested in bringing him back, but Umtiti would have to adjust his salary to sign and in Italy there are several teams interested although no firm proposal has yet been finalised. The centre-back has shown signs of having fully recovered from past injuries, but the market is now offering lower wages in Europe so everyone will have to do their bit. There have been contacts in Saudi Arabia but it would not be a priority for the player.