Tottenham transfer news: Barcelona make approach for Samuel Umtiti as they rival Spurs for Lyon defender

Wanted man: Samuel Umtiti
FRANCK FIFE/AFP/Getty Images
Sam Long4 June 2016

Barcelona are rivalling Tottenham for the signature of Lyon and France defender Samuel Umtiti.

The 22-year-old enjoyed an impressive season in Ligue 1, making 30 appearances, as the club finished second behind champions Paris Saint-Germain.

Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has confirmed Umtiti was the subject of an approach from Barcelona but stressed negotiations between the two clubs have not yet begun.

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"Barcelona have approached us about Umtiti about 10 days ago," Aulas told Eurosport.

"But there are no negotiations taking place yet. Samuel is not on the verge of leaving the club."

Reports in Spain have suggested Umtiti is close to a move to the Camp Nou but the defender's brother and agent has played down an imminent transfer.

"I do not know where the information that it is already a done deal is coming from," he stated.

"There has not been contact with Barcelona yet. We are not negotiating about a transfer to Barcelona."

Umtiti was included in France's Euro 2016 squad after replacing Jeremy Mathieu and is currently on international duty in his homeland.

Pochettino had just three central defenders at his disposal for the majority of last season after allowing Federico Fazio to join Sevilla on loan and converting Eric Dier into a holding midfielder.

With the former expected to depart White Hart Lane defensive additions are likely to be required at the north London club ahead of next season's Champions League campaign.

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