One of the keys to Atlético de Madrid's success this season is the high defensive level. The red-and-white team has regained the solidity that has characterized it over the last decade. One of the great architects, surprisingly, of this is Clement Lenglet, the player on loan from FC Barcelona.
Lenglet, Without a Place at Barcelona but Key for Atlético de Madrid
Despite his good performance in the red-and-white jersey, Lenglet is not in the plans of Hans-Dieter Flick, the Barcelona coach. He has a squad full of defenders like Ronald Araújo, Andreas Christensen, Íñigo Martínez, Pau Cubarsí, and Eric García. Additionally, with the possible arrival of Jonathan Tah, the blue-and-red club has decided to definitively dispense with the French center-back.
At Camp Nou, there is no intention to give him a new opportunity after his previous irregular stint, during which he made costly mistakes. However, at Atlético de Madrid, he has managed to redeem himself, taking advantage of injuries to key players like José María Giménez, Reinildo Mandava, and Robin Le Normand. His defensive solidity and ability to adapt to Cholo Simeone's schemes have made the Madrid club seriously consider his continuity.
Advanced Negotiations Between Atlético de Madrid and Barcelona
Atlético de Madrid, according to ElNacional.Cat, has initiated contacts with Joan Laporta and Barça's sporting director, Deco, with the intention of closing the transfer before June 30. Although the loan contract did not include a purchase option, both parties seem willing to reach an agreement without major obstacles.
Barcelona, aware that Lenglet has no place in its squad, will not demand a high figure for his transfer. It is estimated that the operation will be around 10 million euros, a manageable price for Atlético, which sees the French defender as an important piece for its project.
Lenglet Wants to Stay at Atlético de Madrid
Beyond the negotiations between clubs, Clément Lenglet himself has given the green light to the operation. His desire is to continue under Simeone's orders, where he has found regularity and confidence after several difficult seasons in the Premier League with Tottenham and Aston Villa.
This way, if negotiations continue their course, Lenglet could become one of Atlético's first signings for the next season. Now, everything is in the hands of Gil Marín and Laporta, who are finalizing the details to close the operation.