Manchester United want Barcelona star Umtiti to provide some much-needed solidarity to their defence.
Chris Smalling and Phil Jones have failed to convince over the course of the season while Marcos Rojo’s long-term future is in doubt after falling down Jose Mourinho’s pecking order.
Umtiti would fit the bill as a typical Mourinho player with the Barcelona star thriving over at the Nou Camp.
And Spanish outlet Don Balon claim Pique has learned his defensive partner in crime could be about to jump ship.
In a huge twist, it is said Umtiti is flattered by the interest from United.
Barcelona are determined to fend off the Red Devils by giving him a bumper new contract.
Yet their hesitance could cost them dear with United determined to get a deal done.
Pique has supposedly been informed that Pique is seriously tempted by the offer Mourinho has put on the table.
Whether or not he leaves, though, remains to be seen.
Speaking last month, Ernesto Valverde insisted he was undeterred by talk of Umtiti leaving.
“I’m not worried about what clubs might or might not do,” he said.
“Umtiti is a great player and we expect him to stay at Barca for many more years and for him to enjoy his football with us.”
Umtiti has a £52million buyout clause in his contract.
And Valverde did admit that makes Barcelona vulnerable.
“To an extent, the buyout clause is made high so that you can’t buy the player,” he added.
“But, as time goes by, that fee doesn’t seem so high at all.
“But the player still has to want to leave.
“We’re very happy with Umtiti and I’m sure he’s going to stay here for a very long time.”