Barcelona prepare new deal for Manchester United target

Barcelona are preparing a new deal for Samuel Umtiti to increase his release clause amid interest from Manchester United, reports Spanish newspaper Sport.

Jose Mourinho wants to sign the France international at the end of the season after giving up on a reunion with Real Madrid star Raphael Varane.

Umtiti has been in immense form for Barcelona this season and Mourinho wants to trigger his €60m (£53m) release clause as he looks to bolster his defensive options for a third successive summer.

Chris Smalling does not play a part in Mourinho’s long-term vision at Old Trafford, while Victor Lindelof’s slow start to life at United has convinced the Portuguese to dip into the transfer market once again.

Umtiti has completed more passes in his own half of the pitch than any other player in La Liga this season (380).