Lyon centre back Samuel Umtiti is poised to join Barcelona after the two clubs reportedly reached an agreement for his transfer.
The 22-year-old is currently with his national team France as they bid for Euro 2016 glory, but the defender is likely to complete his move to the La Liga giants before the tournament’s conclusion. Umtiti is expected to cost in the region of £25-million.
‘We anticipate the eventual departure of Umtiti, Samuel has an exclusive agreement for him to join Barcelona,’ Lyon chairman Jean-Michel Aulas told RMC Sport.
‘Right now, Samuel is with Les Bleus and is focused on the Euros and the fact that he can play Sunday against Iceland. If the three parties agree, it is possible that he will leave us.’
Umtiti is a product of Lyon’s academy, where he climbed up through the ranks before eventually finding his feet in the first team in 2012. The star has now racked up 131 Ligue 1 appearances.
Umtiti is set to make his debut for France when the side faces Iceland in their Euro 2016 matchup on Sunday.
The game will take place at the Stade de France, Paris.
Kick-off is at 21:00.
Photo: Reuters
