Lyon intend to keep star defender Samuel Umtiti in France – along with as many of their other star players as possible.
According to Squawka News, Lyon manager Bruno Genesio has insisted that the club has no need or interest in selling the 22-year-old Umtiti nor the majority of their current players.
“Samuel Umtiti is at the Euros and is still an Olympique Lyonnais player,” Genesio said, per Lyon’s official Twitter page. “The club has no need to sell players. My wish is to keep the majority of the players.”
Per the source, Barcelona were looking into Umtiti as a possible replacement for 25-year-old Marc Bartra, who was recently sold to Borussia Dortmund.
Umtiti has made over 160 appearances in all competitions for Lyon over the last five seasons. He started 30 games for the club this past season and earned Man of the Match honours in October for his performance against Reims.
Lyon finished second in Ligue 1 this past year, allowing just 43 goals – eighth fewest in the league.
The 22-year-old defender was added to Didier Deschamps’ squad in Euro 2016, but he has yet to be featured in a match for Les Bleus.
Follow @jtmlovessports on Twitter
SEE MORE:
Lionel Messi at war with Neymar which could force Barcelona star out
Brexit could help Man United to land Real Madrid star
Arsenal eye £24m Primeira Liga striker with more goals than Jamie Vardy