The twist in Samuel Umtiti's future that could help Barca

Samuel Umtiti's successful season at Lecce (25 appearances) has opened up his future, which was disappearing, like someone entering a pitch black tunnel with no way out. The 29-year-old French player has teams interested in him, such as Inter Milan and Olynmpique Lyon now. The news in the last few hours is the appearance of a Saudi Arabian team that wants to present him with an offer.

Umtiti, who is under contract at FC Barcelona, is at a key moment in his career and, after having won his return to Italy, he does not rule out opting for the millions that come from the Middle East. This would be exceptional news for FC Barcelona because, given the goldmine paid in Saudi Arabia, the offer would allow the club to get rid of his salary, which it still pays in part. 

The final years of Umtiti's contract with Barcelona were the most expensive so a move now, to a country that would pay his full contract, would be good news for the coffers of president Joan Laporta.

Umtiti has a contract with Barcelona until 2026 and, for example, the price he would cost the club during the 23-24 season would be 20 million euros. It is therefore understood that Barça are hoping more than anyone else to get him off their books and out of their hands.