Barça is planning the squad for the next season, and once again, a crucial aspect will be sales. Important departures are needed to generate 'fair play', but also to continue reducing the wage bill. There is a name on the table that would help in both aspects: Clement Lenglet, a center-back who is currently on loan at Atlético.
After bouncing around various teams on loan, it seems Lenglet has found his place at Atlético. Before going on loan last summer, he renewed his contract until 2027 to defer his salary, reduce the wage bill, and facilitate an agreement. He started as a substitute, but little by little he has been gaining the trust of a Simeone who wants to keep him permanently.
Hansi Flick gives the OK: Clement Lenglet can go to Atlético
They met during the first preseason training sessions and Flick liked what he saw of Clement Lenglet. The truth is, though, that Flick doesn't count on him. He considers this center-back as 'lost' and has already conveyed his positive response to a possible permanent sale.
Flick considers Lenglet a good defender. However, he believes the position is more than covered and Lenglet is not necessary in his Barça.
In the coming months, Clement Lenglet will turn 30 and doesn't fit into the new blaugrana policy, which aims to rejuvenate its squad. At the moment, there are several center-backs on the first team's payroll, and the Frenchman is completely expendable.
Simeone sets deadline
Speaking of this move, Estadio Deportivo has discovered that Simeone has set a condition for Lenglet's signing by Atlético. Because what he wants is for it to be closed immediately. Starting June 14, the revamped Club World Cup begins in the United States, so the Frenchman would be just days away from ending his loan with the colchoneros.
This new tournament lasts from June 14 to July 13. Atlético could be disadvantaged by losing Clement Lenglet in the middle of it, with his loan ending on the 30th. Simeone has been clear and has requested that this not happen, having few options in the center of defense.
Due to this World Cup, FIFA will open an exceptional transfer window this summer during the first 10 days of June. What Simeone wants is for Lenglet's transfer to be closed during that time, solving the problem and avoiding greater evils.
In this regard, negotiations would already be underway. Both Barça and Atlético interested in closing this matter as soon as possible. Despite this, there is still no agreement.
The culers are asking for 10 million for this transfer, while the colchoneros hope to pay less for Clement Lenglet. Both are playing their cards.