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Barcelona fear Sir Alex Ferguson was following Samuel Umtiti during Roma defeat

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Barcelona fear Sir Alex Ferguson was sent by Man Utd to scout star in Roma clash — Barcelona were knocked out of the Champions League by Roma (Picture: EPA)

Barcelona believe Sir Alex Ferguson was scouting defender Samuel Umtiti during the sides 3-0 defeat to Roma in the Champions League on Tuesday.

The Catalans threw away a 4-1 advantage from the first leg in the Camp Nou with Roma upsetting the odds to progress to the semi-finals.

Romas victory has sent shockwaves through the club and theres likely to be wholesale changes in the summer.

One player that the club do want to keep is Samuel Umtiti but discussions over a new deal for the Frenchman have stalled in recent weeks, according to Sport.

Umtiti is demanding a huge wage increase in recognition of his performances this term and wants to be placed in a group of players behind Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Philippe Coutinho.

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The Frenchman has a £54m release clause in his contract and Barcelona are aware that Manchester United are willing to activate the clause.

Ferguson was a guest at the game in Rome but Barcelona noted his attendance and believe it was a way of United putting extra pressure on Umtiti.

Barcelona are refusing to give into Umtitis demands and Jose Mourinho is said to have made the France international his number one choice to partner Eric Bailly.

MORE: Avram Grant slams Antonio Conte and Chelsea for selling star striker Diego Costa

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