Barcelona transfer news: Samuel Umtiti and Marquinhos admit uncertain future amid Spanish move links

Lyon defender Samuel Umtiti has added fuel to the speculations linking him with a move to Barcelona after admitting that "many players would like to play" at the Nou Camp. The French international, who has is also in the radar of Tottenham Hotspur, said that he is focusing on the Euro 2016 but admitting that he could leave the Ligue 1 during the coming summer transfer window.

Mauricio Pochettino revealed in April that Spurs were closely monitoring the situation of the 22-year-old ahead of luring him to White Hart Lane – with Umtiti himself later expressing his delight over the Tottenham manager praises.

However, reports in France and Spain in recent weeks have claimed that Barcelona are the frontrunners to secure his services during the coming summer transfer window after the La Liga champions see him as a new Eric Abidal due to his versatility in both the left and centre of defence.

Mundo Deportivo reported on weekend that Barcelona have stepped up the negotiation to close the deal in €20m (£15.6m, $22.7m) following the departure of Marc Bartra to Borussia Dortmund.

Asked about those links, Umtiti said to L'Equipe: "Barcelona are a club where many players would like to play."

"But I have a contract with Lyon as everyone knows and as we have done this season. Everything is possible, both to stay and go," Umtiti added. "Honestly, for the moment, I am focus[ed] on the European Championship. I want to do the right thing and then we'll talk with my club."

Paris Saint Germain centre-back Marquinho has also been linked with a move to the Nou Camp in recent months. Sport claimed last week that the Spaniards are ready to pay €40m to secure his services and the Brazilian international has now also failed to diminish those links after admitting that his future at the Ligue 1 side is uncertain.

"I have my contract with PSG until 2019 but of course due to the interest from certain clubs you can see a lot of things in the media," Marquinhos said as quoted by Sport. "I am just focused on Copa America. My situation is under discussion but my focus is here," he added.