The formula that FC Barcelona is studying to facilitate the exit of one of its discards

FC Barcelona remains expectant about what to do with the case of Clément Lenglet, a 'soap opera' that has been offering a great challenge to the culé sports management in the summer market for no less than a couple of seasons now, and this time will be no exception. Although it was recently mentioned that Hansi Flick could consider him for his sporting project for the 24/25 season, the reality is that this option does not seem as clear as the prospect of a possible departure.

It should be remembered that, although the French defender could be valued as a good asset to reinforce the defense, a major impediment to his continuity is his salary. According to several sources, between salaries and deferrals, in the 24/25 campaign he should receive around 16 M€ net, which would place him among the best paid of the Barcelona squad and without playing a leading role. Therefore, his departure could be considered positive by the club.

However, it is precisely those emoluments that make it very complicated for the azulgrana team to find a new soccer destination for him. Why? It is not that the player lacks interest from several teams, as he has several suitors, but his high salary makes it difficult for teams to fit him into their salary structures. In turn, if they wish to acquire his services, they must also pay a transfer fee that at the time Barça estimated at around €15 million net.

The formula that FC Barcelona evaluates to solve the 'Lenglet folder'

So what could be the solution to this inconvenience for FC Barcelona? As suggested by 'SPORT', one way to unblock this situation could be to extend Lenglet's contract with the Catalan club, which currently ends in 2026, with the aim of redistributing his emoluments and make him more attractive either for a loan or, even, a definitive transfer.

This is not a new strategy for FC Barcelona, as in 2022 it renewed Samuel Umtiti, who had a testimonial role in FC Barcelona's sporting planning and whose contract expired in 2023. The contract extension until 2026 included a 10% salary reduction, which helped to lighten the club's wage bill and, in a way, facilitated his loan to Serie A side US Lecce in the summer of 2022.

Therefore, it cannot be ruled out that FC Barcelona will resort to a similar strategy to make the Beauvais native more attractive to other clubs interested in acquiring him. So far, the only option completely ruled out is a move to Saudi Arabia. Moreover, should the German coach decide to take him on board, he would seek salary conditions more suited to the club's finances, which are currently looking to stabilize.