It seems to be only a matter of time before the union between FC Barcelona defender Clément Lenglet and Atlético de Madrid becomes official. As reported by 'Footmercato', the 'colchoneros' have reached an agreement with the Beauvais native to successfully conclude this negotiation, with the adjustment of positions between both clubs still pending to seal this pact.
This point seems to be the most complex, as, despite the Frenchman's desire to join the 'rojiblanco' team, having rejected several proposals from Arabia, Turkey, and Ligue 1, as well as the interest from Villarreal, Sevilla, or Real Sociedad, an agreement is still needed on a formula that satisfies all parties involved in the negotiation. The main issue? The Frenchman's salary.
As stated by 'SPORT', Barcelona is considering a loan where Atlético would assume part of his emoluments or a renewal with the Catalan club to defer part of the salary and reduce his salary for the upcoming season. This method, previously used with João Félix, proved successful for 'Atleti' in finding an exit for the Portuguese forward.
FC Barcelona needs to be able to close this negotiation as soon as possible
Now, if Clément Lenglet's departure is finalized soon, FC Barcelona would receive a breather in terms of the salary cap. By losing one of the players destined to receive higher emoluments this season, around 16 million euros gross, it would free up space to register players who are waiting to be enrolled in LaLiga such as Dani Olmo, Pau Víctor, Iñigo Martínez, Pablo Torre, Álex Valle, and Vitor Roque.
On the other hand, this situation would be positive for Lenglet, who could have a relevant role in an Atlético de Madrid that currently lacks a starting left-back. The former Sevilla player would be an express request from 'Cholo' Simeone to cover that position, giving him the opportunity to play and perhaps rediscover his best form, and even try to increase his value in the market.
Also, for the defender, being part of a project with quality reinforcements like Julián Álvarez, Alexander Sørloth, and Robin Le Normand, suggests that Atlético is well positioned to compete for big things. If Lenglet regains his playing form shown in his early years at the Catalan club, he could provide that extra quality that Atlético needs in their defense.