Freedom at last! Barcelona finally terminate Samuel Umtiti's contract

Umtiti spent last season on loan at Italian side Lecce where he impressed, making 25 Serie A appearances for the club.

The 29-year-old is now a free agent after Barcelona have taken necessary steps to release him from his contract and pay him off with three years left. 

The termination is expected to free up some salary space to register new signings as Xavi looks to shape his squad for the season ahead.

"Barcelona and Umtiti have reached an agreement to release the player from the contract binding him to the club until the end of the 2025/26 season," a statement from the Catalan club said Friday. 

"The club wishes to express its gratitude to Umtiti and wishes him every fortune and success in the future."