Umtiti renews contract at Barcelona

Barcelona, June 4: French center-back Samuel Umtiti reassured Barcelona football fans on Monday that despite receiving offers from other soccer clubs, he had never considered leaving the club.

The 24-year-old France international spoke to press during a contract renewal ceremony that extended his stay at the Spanish Liga side for another five seasons, reported Efe.

“I never thought about leaving Barca,” Umtiti told a press conference held alongside Barcelona’s president Josep Maria Bartomeu.

“There was a lot of talk but my priority since day one was to renew. I am very happy in the city and in the team and I have everyone’s trust. I am not going to leave here: this is my home,” he added.

The Cameroon-born looks set to feature in Barca’s back-line until 2023.

“Without Samu, this team would not be the same,” said Bartolemeu of the deal, adding that the eye-watering buyout clause would act as a deterrent for other clubs. IANS