Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu says there's not much chance of Antoine Griezmann signing for the club this summer and closed the door on a Samuel Umtiti exit. In an interview with TVE, Bartomeu spoke about a range of subjects.
When asked if he would move for Griezmann next season, the Barça chief simply said "I want all the great players to play in La Liga." He also assured that the club weren't annoyed by the Frenchman's decision to turn down the Catalans to stay at Atletico Madrid last year. "It was his decision," he said. "If he tells us he wants to come? We would have to speak with the coach, but Griezmann's not on the table right now. He has not called Barça."
umtiti ISSUE
The president also spoke about the situation surrounding Umtiti and said he's not keen on letting him leave the club this summer. "He renewed after the World Cup and has four years left on his deal," he explained. "There's no issue with Umtiti. He has to get back in shape and form after his injury, he's not been back for long. Him and [Clement] Lenglet are two of the best left-sided centre-backs and Barça want the best."
Bartomeu also made it clear that "La Liga is now won" although he added "as soon as we can win it, better, but the opposition are also playing."
The president also spoke about:
Cristiano Ronaldo: "It's bad news for the league that he left for Italy, because it's given more relevance to another championship. But Barça fans are happy because they've won seven of the last 10 leagues and are on for an eighth in 11 years."
Matthijs de Ligt: "There are several teams that want him. It seems he will be on the market and depending on what the coaches say, we will decide whether to get involved. He's a great player and would fit in at Barça."
Philippe Coutinho: "There are few cracks like him and he's here with us. He has a contract and we're happy with him."
Lionel Messi: "I think his life will always be linked to Barcelona. He's got two years left on his contract. My mandate endes in 2021 and before I leave I would like to renew his deal."