Clément Lenglet is once again a headache for Barça. The French center-back, who isn't part of Hansi Flick's plans, has shown his willingness to leave the club this summer. Although his contract ends on June 30, 2026.
Lenglet's trap
However, as is usual in Barça's outgoing operations, there's a catch: Lenglet wants to leave, yes... but he wants to get paid every last euro.
The player is already aware of Atlético de Madrid's interest, who are open to signing him permanently at a low cost.
The problem, as is almost always the case, isn't with the buying club but with the player. Lenglet is demanding that Barça pay him for the remaining year on his contract, or an equivalent compensation, before he packs his bags.
Disastrous operation
Lenglet has become one of the many examples of failed signings from Barça's recent past. He arrived from Sevilla in 2018 for €35 million and, after a promising start, his performance declined until he was relegated. Neither Xavi nor Flick now see him as a valid piece for the new project.
After unsuccessful loans at Tottenham and Aston Villa, Lenglet now reappears in the Barça squad as an accounting problem. He has a high salary (almost €14 million gross) and the club urgently needs to free up his wage in order to register new signings. However, his inflexible stance makes him yet another obstacle in the way.
Atlético interested... but not at any price
Atlético de Madrid, who are looking to strengthen their defense with low-cost operations, have sounded out his camp. Simeone values his experience and versatility, but isn't willing to take on a multi-million salary. That's why Barça would have to compensate Lenglet to facilitate his departure, a scenario that Laporta's offices already consider inevitable.
The player's camp is clear: he won't leave losing money, even if that means blocking his exit. This position angers the sporting management, who see how necessary operations to reduce the wage bill are once again getting stuck.
Lenglet doesn't want to make anything easier
In short: Lenglet will leave Barça, yes, but only if the club pays for letting him go. Laporta already knows the severance price: €6 million net.
This is another case that shows the planning mistakes of the past and highlights the economic challenges that continue to weigh down the club. Laporta and Deco know it: if they want to build a competitive Barça, they first need to get rid of those who only add up in the accounts... and subtract on the field.
Laporta has no intention of giving in. There have been many disastrous deals with Atlético de Madrid: David Villa, Luis Suárez, Memphis Depay, Griezmann... Lenglet won't be another one.
Moreover, Deco knows that for Simeone Lenglet is the best center-back in his squad. Barça won't give in and aren't willing to give him away.