Samuel Umtiti has reported “no news” on contract extension talks at Barcelona and refused to quash rumours regarding a possible move to Manchester United.
The France international is reported to have emerged as a top target for Jose Mourinho as the Red Devils boss seeks to reinforce his defensive unit at Old Trafford.
Umtiti is set to be available for €60 million, with the 24-year-old’s current deal at Camp Nou including a relatively modest release clause.
Barca had been hoping to put fresh terms in place before the summer transfer window opens, allowing them to price rivals out of the market, but no agreement has been reached.
Umtiti has suggested that no deal is in the pipeline, although the highly-rated centre-back told reporters at France’s pre-World Cup training camp that he is hoping to find a resolution before heading to Russia: "On my contract extension I have no news. I look at my phone but I have not been called so nothing has happened.
“My situation? I don’t think it's going to disturb me too much because it's been going on for a few months and I had to finish a season like this.
“I think it's important to settle these cases before the start of the competition and for my part it will be done.”
For now, Umtiti is focused solely on France’s quest for global glory.
Getty ImagesHe will be taking on that challenge alongside Antoine Griezmann, a man who has been heavily linked with a move to join him at Barcelona.
Again, no deal is in place despite months of speculation and Umtiti is reluctant to be drawn into a debate regarding what could happen.
He is, however, prepared to admit that a proven performer at La Liga rivals Atletico Madrid would be a welcome addition in Catalunya.
Umtiti said: “Antoine Griezmann is a fantastic player, he would be very important in any group. In Barcelona he could bring a lot of good things.”