Atletico Madrid has already begun to build its roster for the forthcoming season, and the first reinforcement that might come to pass is not an outside signing but rather the continuation of an existing player. Clément Lenglet, who is now on loan from FC Barcelona to Atletico, is a center-back who has impressed Diego Simeone with his performances and may end up staying at the Metropolitano permanently.
The Atletico sports management has made it obvious that they intend to retain the French defender, even if the loan arrangement between Atletico and Barcelona did not include a buyout option. Atletico is reportedly willing to pay about 15 million euros for his transfer, which Barcelona might agree to lower their payroll and let go of a player who isn’t in Hansi Flick’s plans, according to people close to the team.
Atlético Madrid is already preparing for its first signing
The sporting management of Atletico Madrid has already been persuaded by Simeone to sign Lenglet permanently from Barcelona in the summer, according to SPORT. The Argentine coach is enthusiastic about keeping the former Sevilla center-back with the team after this season because of his professionalism, poise, and defensive dependability.
Atletico Madrid plans to approach Barcelona as the season draws to a close, although no official talks have yet taken place between the two teams. There is a chance that the current loan agreement might be extended, but the Spanish capital club prefers a permanent transfer that fits with Barça’s goals.
Barcelona will reportedly demand a €10 million transfer fee for Lenglet, which the Colchoneros are unwilling to pay because they know the Frenchman is not part of the Catalan team’s plans and they must sell him in order to adhere to Financial Fair Play rules.
Additionally, Atletico Madrid’s attempts to block Barcelona’s registration of Dani Olmo and Pau Victor in January have strained ties between the two clubs recently. Negotiations will therefore likely be difficult.
