Atletico Madrid is reportedly eager to open talks with Barcelona about extending Clement Lenglet’s stay at the club beyond his current loan, according to Ferran Correas. The French defender, currently playing for Atleti, has impressed the club’s leadership with his performances, sparking discussions about making his move permanent after this season.
Lenglet’s revival at Atletico marks a significant change in his career after struggling for consistent minutes at Barcelona in recent years. Under Diego Simeone, the center-back has found a stable role, adapting well to the team’s defensive style and showcasing the qualities that once made him a standout player at Sevilla before his move to Camp Nou.
Barcelona had originally loaned Lenglet to Aston Villa last summer, but his time in the Premier League was disappointing, leading to an early termination of the loan. Atletico took the opportunity to bring him in during the winter transfer window, and the move has proven beneficial for both the player and the club.
Simeone values Lenglet’s ball composure, positional awareness, and ability to read the game, all of which have contributed to strengthening Atletico’s defense. His performances have earned him the trust of both his teammates and coaching staff. Given Atletico’s earlier defensive struggles this season, Lenglet’s presence has brought stability and depth to the squad.
For Barcelona, this potential move presents an intriguing situation. The club is currently facing financial difficulties and might be open to permanently offloading Lenglet’s wages. While the Frenchman was not part of Xavi’s long-term plans, Barcelona would seek a reasonable transfer fee if Atletico expresses interest in a permanent deal.
However, the negotiation process may not be simple. Barcelona is likely to ask for a fee that reflects Lenglet’s market value, while Atletico, known for their cautious financial approach, might aim for a more favorable deal, possibly including another loan with an obligation to buy.
Lenglet’s personal preference will also be crucial in the decision-making process. He seems to be enjoying his time in Madrid and could push for a permanent move if he continues to perform well, preferring stability at Atletico over returning to Barcelona, where he would face tough competition for a starting spot.
The next few months will be crucial in determining Lenglet’s future. Atletico’s ambitions for the remainder of the season, as well as their financial position in the transfer market, will play a key role in the final outcome. Meanwhile, Barcelona will review their squad needs and financial strategies before making any commitments.
As the summer transfer window approaches, Lenglet’s situation could be one of the most closely watched developments. With his revitalized form and Atletico keen to retain him, negotiations will need to be handled carefully to reach a favorableagreement for all parties.
For now, Lenglet remains focused on helping Atletico finish strong in La Liga and their European campaign. Whether his future lies in Madrid or elsewhere, his resurgence under Simeone has undoubtedly rekindled interest in his abilities at the top level.