AC Milan want Barcelona defender Samuel Umtiti?

AC Milan have emerged as contenders to sign Barcelona defender Samuel Umtiti, according to a report.

The Frenchman has been placed on the transfer list by the Catalan outfit, who were eager to get rid of him in the summer.

Umtiti claimed last month that he was willing to fight for his place in the Barca team, but Ronald Koeman is yet to use the 27-year-old this season.

Calcio Mercato claims that Milan are weighing up a move for Umtiti, describing the centre-back as a "surprise" target for the Italian side.

Everton have also been linked with signing Umtiti, with Rafael Benitez making a new centre-back his priority for the January transfer window.

The 27-year-old has made 132 appearances for Barcelona, winning two La Liga titles and three Copa del Rey crowns.