Clement Lenglet is reportedly on the verge of joining Atletico Madrid from Barcelona, with the two clubs sealing an agreement on a loan deal.
According to an update by reputed Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Clement Lenglet finally has clarity on his future. The French defender has secured an agreement to join Atletico Madrid, with Barcelona giving the green light to the operation. Los Rojiblancos will pay the “main part” of the French defender’s salary, but they do not have a purchase option or obligation in the arrangement.
Clement Lenglet and his Barcelona woes
Clement Lenglet has been at a crossroads in his career for nearly 30 months. Once a regular for Barcelona, the Frenchman has seen his stock plummet in the last few years, initially becoming a peripheral figure for the Blaugrana before embarking on two loan spells in as many seasons.
Tottenham Hotspur secured Lenglet’s services for the 2022/23 season before Aston Villa signed him on loan for the 2023/24 campaign. However, neither club completed a permanent move for the 29-year-old, who has been with Barcelona since returning from Villa Park a few weeks ago.
Barcelona mulled over terminating Clement Lenglet’s contract to get his wages off the books. However, the player was adamant he would not agree to leaving Barcelona as a free agent this summer. So, the two parties have been eager to find a solution before the summer transfer window shuts down, with Atletico Madrid presenting the opportunity.
Move across La Liga beckons?
Atletico Madrid’s interest in Clement Lenglet is understandable. The Colchoneros have already signed one centre-back this summer, with Robin Le Normand arriving from Real Sociedad. However, they are keen on adding another central defender to their squad, with the Barcelona outcast emerging as a target.
Barcelona initially hesitated to conduct negotiations with Atletico Madrid before agreeing to send the 29-year-old Frenchman on loan to the Civitas Metropolitano. So, the two parties have sealed the agreement over a deal, with Lenglet on the verge of completing a temporary move across La Liga.
The French defender will extend his contract with Barcelona until June 30, 2026, before moving to Atletico Madrid. Meanwhile, Los Rojiblancos will pay the “main part” of Clement Lenglet’s salary. However, they will not have an option or obligation to complete a permanent move next summer.
