Umtiti looks closer than ever to Barcelona exit but Arsenal should still have some doubts

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Samuel Umtiti is to be allowed to leave Barcelona this summer as part of a mass clearout, according to Spanish outlet AS.

They report that despite winning La Liga and being in the final of the Copa del Rey, the Spanish giants were already planning a summer overhaul even before their humilating Champions League exit at the hands of Liverpool.

Umtiti has apparently slipped down the pecking order at the Nou Camp, and the club’s interest in Matthijs de Ligt would only serve to worsen that situation for the man who won the World Cup last summer.

But the report also says that there should be concerns for any potential suitor. Firstly, Umtiti apparently doesn’t want to leave, and would need to be convinced about the merits of any move.

Secondly, the report is absolutely damning about Umtiti’s fitness – stating that his knee is ‘banjaxed’ to the extent that it may not pass any medical at a new club.

Earlier this week, the Daily Mail linked Arsenal with a swoop for the French international as they seek to upgrade their defensive options ahead of the new season.

There’s no doubt that in terms of quality, Umtiti is on a higher level than any centre-half Arsenal have but the last thing they need is another defensive crock after years of struggling with injuries at the back.

Add in the fact that Umtiti is apparently not mad on a move and Arsenal should still be wary about a summer swoop.