The Mail claims Newcastle could still bring Barcelona defender Samuel Umtiti to Tyneside this month on loan until the summer. Umtiti signed a new contract at Barcelona until the summer of 2026, earlier this month.
Umtiti, 28, was on big wages at Barcelona and in order for Ferran Torres to finally be registered to play – Umtiti has signed a new deal, on new terms. It has allowed the january recruit from Manchester City to become available.
But the France international could still be on the move. Indeed, the £21million (GOAL) signing from Lyon is still some way down the pecking order. His new deal does not change that he has played only once in 21-22.
It means that despite the contract, he could still leave Barcelona – and the Mail report that Newcastle might still land the left-footer on loan. Whether Umtiti is keen on a move to the Premier League remains to be seen.
Umtiti to Newcastle: Loan deal for Barcelona man makes sense
The belief that Umtiti is past it, is harsh. He is a left-footed centre-back, something Newcastle need given the lack of quality in Ciaran Clark – and immediately becomes the club’s best centre-back if he does join.
Yes, Newcastle would rather permanent deals for the likes of Benoit Badiashile, Sven Botman and Diego Carlos. But if they cannot strike deals for two of the three – or can only get one – then a loan for Umtiti is needed.
TransferMarkt report that Umtiti is represented by the same agency that looks after Villarreal manager Unai Emery, who nearly joined Newcastle.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
