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Samuel Umtiti says his move to Barcelona is a 'dream come true'

Samuel Umtiti smiles during his official Barcelona presentation at the Camp Nou
Image: Samuel Umtiti smiles during his official Barcelona presentation at the Nou Camp

Samuel Umtiti says his move to Barcelona is a "dream come true" and he has vowed to learn from his new team-mates.

The 22-year-old has signed a five-year contract with the Spanish champions following his £21.2m (€25m) move from Lyon, with his buy-out clause set at £50m (€60m).

Umtiti earned his first France cap in their 5-2 Euro 2016 quarter-final triumph over Iceland, with the centre-half keeping his place in the side for the semi-final win over Germany and loss to Portugal in the final.

Umtiti won his second cap for France against Germany
Image: Umtiti won his second cap for France against Germany

"I'm thrilled and very moved to be here," Umtiti said at his official unveiling. "This is a dream come true. Barca was the club of my dreams.

"I like Barcelona's mentality and their style of play. I hope I can adapt rapidly to the team and I will do everything possible to prove that I can be a part of this family.

First Clasico set for December
First Clasico set for December

Barcelona and Real Madrid will have to wait until December for the first Clasico of the new season.

"There are great players at this club and I can't wait to play with them."

Umtiti joins fellow French international Lucas Digne in completing a move to Catalonia this week after the defender arrived from Paris Saint-Germain on a five-year deal.

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Lucas Digne has also completed a move to Barcelona
Image: Lucas Digne (left) has also completed a move to Barcelona

Umtiti understands that he faces stiff competition for a starting place in Luis Enrique's side but is keen to continue to learn and progress.

"I've come here to progress with players that have a lot of experience and from whom I will be able to learn," he said. "There are great players in my position but I'm competitive and I want to play, although the important thing is that I learn.

Samuel Umtiti waves to Barcelona supporters during his official presentation at the Camp Nou
Image: Umtiti waves to Barcelona supporters during his official presentation

"I managed to play at the European Championship but it's not enough. I need to keep proving my potential to return to the national team."

Barcelona sporting director Robert Fernandez said the club beat several Premier League sides to Umtiti's signature.

Umtiti has signed a five-year deal at Barcelona
Image: Umtiti has signed a five-year deal at Barcelona

"We followed him last season and we really liked him," Fernandez said. "It was not an easy negotiation as there were English clubs interested in him.

"Umtiti is a young player, who can play in different positions and despite being left-footed, he has proved he can play on the right."

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