Robert Fernandez continues to comb the European market for possible signings for FC Barcelona. Last weekend he visited France and took in the game between Lyon and Paris Saint-Germain. Sources close to Lyon have claimed that Barça are one of several clubs to access their games recently to watch Samuel Umtiti live.

Frederic Martin

Umtiti is a 22-year-old central defender who can also play at left-back. He is of Cameroonian origin, but has been an international at various youth levels with France. He stands out for his pace and his aggression in one-on-one situations, although it’s said he still could do with improving his game on a technical level.

The rumours in France have gone up a level since Robert was spotted there, mainly because it’s well known that Barça do have a need for a new centre-back, especially one who could play at left-back, too, in the case that Adriano and Jeremy Mathieu leave.

As is nearly always the case, Premier League teams are already part of the chase. Newcastle United have presented an offer, while just a few days ago the player himself dismissed links with Real Madrid. In any case, negotiating with Lyon is never east and the eventual fee is likely to exceed 15 million euros.