Joao Felix is at the centre of Atletico Madrid's transfer market. His situation is key to defining the club's next moves. Since his arrival, Felix has shown talent, but has failed to establish himself under Diego Simeone. The Argentine coach does not count on him for next season, which has led the club to look for an exit for the Portuguese player.
The possible signing of Clément Lenglet to Atlético is directly related to the future of Joao Félix. According to El Desmarque, the arrival of the French centre-back depends on Atlético freeing up space in its squad and its wage bill. This will only happen if Félix finds a new destination. Everything suggests that it will be in the Premier League: Chelsea or Aston Villa.
Joan Laporta, president of FC Barcelona, is interested in facilitating Lenglet's departure, since he is not part of the Blaugrana team's plans.
Joao Félix has Jan Laporta pending
Laporta needs to lighten the payroll and make room for new signings. Lenglet is one of the players who could leave to meet these objectives. However, his transfer to Atlético will only happen if Joao Félix leaves the Madrid club. This operation would benefit all parties involved: Barça lightens its squad, Atlético strengthens its defense, and Lenglet gets more minutes in a competitive team.
Diego Simeone has made it clear that he does not plan to count on Joao Felix. The Portuguese's style of play does not fit with Simeone's philosophy, which prefers players who are more dedicated in the defensive aspect. Felix's departure is a priority for the club, as it would allow them to bring in players who adapt better to the "Cholo" system.
Clément Lenglet, meanwhile, is looking for a new challenge. He has lost his prominence at Barcelona and sees Atlético as an opportunity to relaunch his career. The French centre-back's experience in La Liga and European competitions makes him an attractive option for Simeone. In addition, his incorporation would strengthen a defence that has been key to Atlético's recent successes.
Joao Felix must secure his exit to the Premier
The possible exchange between Félix and Lenglet is a complex operation. It requires both parties to reach an agreement that satisfies both the players and the clubs. For Atlético, the departure of Félix would free up financial resources and allow them to strengthen a key position. For Barcelona, the departure of Lenglet would ease the wage burden and facilitate the arrival of new signings.
Joan Laporta is in a delicate position. He must balance Barcelona's sporting needs with the club's economic realities. Lenglet's departure is part of a broader strategy to restructure the squad. The Atlético deal, if it goes through, could be a win-win if handled skilfully.