Barcelona Ace Samuel Umtiti Speaks Out Amid Man Utd And Real Madrid Links

Barcelona star Samuel Umtiti insists he is focused on the task at hand amid speculation Manchester United and Real Madrid want to sign him.

Umtiti has forged a reputation as one of Europe’s top centre-backs since joining Barcelona from Lyon in 2016.

And he’s been one of their most reliable performers this season as they’ve targeted success on three fronts.

United and Real have taken note of Umtiti’s impressive form, with claims summer raids are on the cards.

And those rumours have grown with Barcelona struggling to convince the 24-year-old to sign a new contract that would in turn increase his £52m (€60m) release clause.

Umtiti moved to dampen the speculation on Wednesday night though while speaking after Barcelona’s 4-1 win over Roma.

"It was not a [special message], I [just] wanted to say that I love this club," said Umtiti, referring to grabbing the badge onhis shirt while celebrating Kostas Manolas’ own goal.

"I have nothing much else to say. I just stick to playing and doing well on the pitch.

"That is the most important thing for me.That is what I will keep trying to do.

"The rest are things that come out in the press - some true, some false - but I focus on football."

Barcelona will be hoping to make progress on talks for a new contract for Umtiti soon.

The France international, whose current release clause is proving to be enticing, is tied down until 2021.

But he is thought to be demanding Barcelona pay him £7.8m (€9m) a year to convince him to stay put.

Reports in Spain suggest Manchester United And Real Madrid would be willing to hand Umtiti the pay rise he has asked for.