The Mirror are claiming that Arsenal will only make a move for Barcelona defender Samuel Umtiti if they are able to beat Chelsea in the Europa League final.
Arsenal face Chelsea in Baku next Wednesday as Unai Emery looks to secure a major trophy during his first season in charge of the club.
Emery led Arsenal to 5th in the Premier League, narrowly missing out on a Champions League place, but can now get into Europe’s premier cup competition if they can get past Chelsea.
The Mirror claim that Champions League football is the only way Arsenal can afford the £50m Barcelona are demanding for Umtiti.
It’s not a secret that Arsenal need to strengthen their defence this summer after conceding far too many goals this season.
But, would Umtiti solve their problems? He would certainly go a long way to doing so. Although the club probably still need to sign a right-back, signing Umtiti would be a big statement of intent.
The French international was magnificent at the World Cup last summer as he played every minute of the campaign and France lifted the trophy after beating Croatia in the final.
Although he has fallen down the pecking order at Barcelona, he remains a first-choice for France and continues to impress alongside Rafa Varane at centre-back – showing that he still has what it takes to be a top-class defender.
If Arsenal manage to come away from Baku with the Europa League trophy, Umtiti is the first signing they need to make in order to push on next season.
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