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Benfica interested in Barcelona’s Samuel Umtiti

By Ernesto Hernandez

Barcelona defender Samuel Umtiti (R) and goalkeeper Neto arrive for a training session. (Photo by PAU BARRENA/AFP via Getty Images)
Barcelona defender Samuel Umtiti (R) and goalkeeper Neto arrive for a training session. (Photo by PAU BARRENA/AFP via Getty Images) /
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Barcelona’s French defender Samuel Umtiti (with ball) has seen very little action with the Catalan side this season. (Photo by LLUIS GENE/AFP via Getty Images)
Barcelona’s French defender Samuel Umtiti (with ball) has seen very little action with the Catalan side this season. (Photo by LLUIS GENE/AFP via Getty Images) /

The arrival of Xavi Hernandez as new Barcelona manager brings new opportunities for different players. Those who were not taken into consideration under Ronald Koeman could get a fresh start under the former star midfielder.

One of those players is French center-back Samuel Umtiti. Wrought with injuries the past few seasons, he entered this campaign in the best shape of his life, but has yet to feature at all. However, he may not get that chance if the latest reports are to be believed.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Benfica are set to make a push for the defender come the winter transfer window. The Portuguese side see Umtiti as an ideal replacement for Lucas Veríssimo who suffered an injury and is likely to miss the rest of the season.

Barcelona still need to clear out space from their wage bill

Benfica are going to use their upcoming Champions League clash against the Catalans in the Champions League as an opportunity to negotiate.

Umtiti has had a rough go of it and things only got worse following the departure of Lionel Messi. He was one of the players singled out as being responsible on account of him being on high wages. He was heavily booed in the Joan Gamper match against Juventus.

This led to the Frenchman leaving the pitch as soon as the final whistle blew. He has not played ever since.

The obstacle in a potential operation will be Umtiti himself. He has been adamant he wants to fight for his spot at Barcelona. He likely sees Xavi’s appointment as his chance to finally prove himself.

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It will be up to the new manager to decide whether he counts on Umtiti or not. Whatever the case may be, his wages still make him a prime target to leave either in January or at the end of the season.

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