Arsenal have opened talks with Barcelona for Samuel Umtiti.

Gazzetta dello Sport says Gunners chief Raul Sanllehi has opened talks with Barca director of football Eric Abidal.

Umtiti was sidelined from September to February with a knee injury and has featured just twice in La Liga since his recovery.

The Frenchman only signed a fresh five-year deal at the Nou Camp last summer, with an astronomical release clause of €500million.

Barca are understood to be ready to trim their wage bill at the end of the season as they look to lure Matthijs de Ligt to the club from Ajax.