Atlético de Madrid is still planning its squad for the next season, and Clément Lenglet has become a priority for Simeone. The French center-back, on loan from Barcelona, has managed to convince the red-and-white coaching staff with his performance, to the point that the Madrid club is already working on his permanent signing.
According to SPORT, Barça is willing to let the defender go, as they do not count on him for the future. They need to free up salary mass to improve their financial fair play margin, but the negotiations, as known, are not going to be easy.
Lenglet, From Substitute to Key Piece for Simeone
Lenglet's arrival at Atlético de Madrid raised doubts, but the Frenchman has replied in spades. Although he started as a substitute, he took advantage of Robin Le Normand's injury to earn a spot in the starting eleven and, since October, has been a regular piece in the colchonero defense.
With 20 matches played and two goals scored, Lenglet has demonstrated defensive solidity, leadership, and good ball distribution, characteristics that have convinced Simeone. In fact, the Argentine coach has expressly asked Atlético's sports management to make an effort to sign him permanently.
Barça Needs to Sell, Atlético Wants to Negotiate
Despite Lenglet renewing with Barça until 2027 before going on loan, his future at Camp Nou is sealed. The blue and garnet club needs to part with him to balance their economy and facilitate new signings. The problem is the price, as Barça hopes to get 10 million euros for the French center-back, but Atlético is not willing to reach that figure. They know that the Catalan team is not in a good economic position and will play that factor to their advantage in the negotiation.
Moreover, the relations between both clubs are not at their best, after the obstacles Atlético put on the registration of Olmo and Pau Víctor. However, both know that a negotiation could benefit all parties. Nonetheless, it seems that the clubs are obliged to understand each other to close a deal that favors the interests of both.