Man United and Arsenal in fight over World Cup winner

It’s not everyday a World Cup winner becomes available on the market. 

Since the biggest tournament in world football started in 1930, only 445 players have been in a World Cup winning men’s team.

Finding a player who has lifted the 18-carat gold trophy for their country, particularly one who is perhaps currently available on the cheap, is like finding a solid gold needle in a field of hay.

They do not come around very often and when they become available; clubs all around Europe fall over themselves to secure their services and signature.

And according to the Daily Star, Manchester United and Arsenal are set to go to battle over the signature of France and Barcelona central defender Samuel Umtiti.

Umtiti would bring much needed quality and experience to both sides.

The 26-year-old defender partnered Raphael Varane at the heart of Les Bleus’ backline as they went on to win the famous gold trophy in Russia in 2018.

However, he has endured a torrid time with injuries ever since and has been limited to only 50 league appearances in the last three seasons.

Fortunately for the classy defender, he is still relatively young and there is plenty of time for him to regain his fitness and become one of the best defenders in world football once again.

Barcelona’s torrid financial situation means they will need to shift over £200 million from their wage bill, otherwise they will not be allowed to register and play new signings such as Memphis Depay and Sergio Aguero.

Therefore, an opportunity to get the former Lyon defender off their books will be an attractive one, especially with Umtiti currently reportedly earning around £17 million per season.

Manchester United and Arsenal are claimed to be at the front of the queue, but it wouldn’t be surprised if more clubs start to show an interest in the Frenchman.