Barcelona news: Man Utd interest in Samuel Umtiti not a concern - Valverde

United have been heavily linked with a move for the centre-back, who recently revealed himself that the Red Devils have shown genuine interest.

While the France international also declared that there are “other clubs” keeping tabs on his situation, he acknowledged the “low” release clause in his contract - thought to be just €60million (£52.3m).

That fee is considered a bargain in the current transfer market, with defenders of less pedigree and quality demanding similar if not higher fees. 

And Umtiti - who only arrived at the Nou Camp in 2016 - insisted that negotiations with Barca to extend his deal have not yet begun, likely sparking a frenzy among the many interested European clubs.

Umtiti has made himself one of Valverde’s most important players alongside Gerard Pique in the centre of defence, making 34 appearances and only denied more by injuries.

But Barca boss Valverde insists the 24-year-old remains settled in Catalonia and suggested that rumours of a move away are not a concern.

"I don’t know what Umtiti’s said, I have not followed his comments," Valverde said ahead of their Champions League quarter-final first leg against Roma. 

"What I understand is that he’s really happy to be here and we’re very happy with him.

"We hope the negotiations go well and that he’s here for many more years, because he means a lot on and off the pitch."

It is thought that Barca are keen to open talks in the immediate future to ensure that they don’t lose Umtiti on the cheap, although some have suggested the player's camp are asking for an excessive wage increase to renew his terms.

The former Lyon man is expected to feature when Barcelona host Roma at the Nou Camp tonight (7.45pm kick-off).