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France's defender Samuel Umtiti gives a press conference at the Aguilera stadium in Biarritz on May 21, 2016, during the team preparation for the Euro 2016 European football.  / AFP / FRANCK FIFE        (Photo credit should read FRANCK FIFE/AFP/Getty Images)
France's defender Samuel Umtiti gives a press conference at the Aguilera stadium in Biarritz on May 21, 2016, during the team preparation for the Euro 2016 European football. / AFP / FRANCK FIFE (Photo credit should read FRANCK FIFE/AFP/Getty Images)FRANCK FIFE/Getty Images

Samuel Umtiti to Barcelona: Latest Transfer Details, Reaction and More

Christopher SimpsonJul 12, 2016

Barcelona have confirmed the signing of Lyon defender Samuel Umtiti. The move comes on the heels of an impressive Euro 2016 campaign from the French youngster.

The Blaugrana announced the deal via their official Twitter feed on Tuesday, with the player signing a five-year deal:

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Sport's Sam Marsden reported details of his buyout clause:

Umtiti arrives at the Camp Nou after 15 years with Lyon, having joined in 2001. He leaves the Ligue 1 outfit having developed into one of the most exciting young centre-backs in European football.

Bleacher Report UK's Jack Lusby and Jerome Pugmire of the Associated Press gave their takes on the capture:

Football writer Robin Bairner also believes he is a strong purchase for the Blaugrana:

So does Spanish football expert Sergi Dominguez, who ran the rule over his strengths:

According to Squawka, Umtiti showed his dominance in the air in Ligue 1 last season, winning a staggering 91 of his 126 aerial duels.

He also made an impressive 72 interceptions and 153 clearances, and as his 87 per cent passing accuracy shows, he's comfortable in possession—a requirement of all centre-backs at the Camp Nou.

Here's a look at the skills Barca fans can expect to see from the 22-year-old next season:

Despite his age, Umtiti was a key player for Lyon, as Squawka Football revealed:

The hope at the Camp Nou will be that he can develop into the same for them.

Aside from Javier Mascherano—a midfielder by trade—Barca's only reliable centre-back is Gerard Pique, who could really do with a new long-term partner in defence, as neither Thomas Vermaelen or Jeremy Mathieu inspires much confidence.

Umtiti looks like he can be the missing piece of the puzzle—and Barcelona will reap the rewards from his signing for years to come.

Mbappé's Rollercoaster Season 🎢

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