Atlético Madrid Plotting Double Move for Barcelona’s €12M Problem

The French centre-back’s massive wages from the Bartomeu era have created a financial headache that could finally be resolved through either a loan deal or contract termination.

Two Routes to Madrid

Atlético have presented Barcelona with dual options for the 29-year-old:

Option 1: One-year loan extension with salary sharing Option 2: Wait for Barcelona to terminate his contract and sign him as a free agent

The capital club refuse to absorb Lenglet’s full salary, viewing him as squad depth rather than a marquee signing.

Barcelona’s €12M Dilemma

Lenglet remains among Barcelona’s highest earners despite being frozen out by Hansi Flick. His inflated wages stem from deferred payments negotiated during Josep Maria Bartomeu’s presidency.

Key contract details:

• 29 years old – still in his prime
• High earner from legacy Bartomeu contracts
• Zero future under Flick’s plans
• Urgent exit needed for wage bill relief

Atlético’s Calculated Gamble

Diego Simeone’s side are prioritizing a major defensive signing this summer, making Lenglet a secondary target. Their strategy focuses on minimal financial commitment while strengthening squad depth.

The loan approach allows them to evaluate the defender for 12 months without long-term commitment. The free transfer route eliminates any transfer fee while gambling on Barcelona’s desperation.

Flick’s Clear Stance

The German manager has made his position crystal clear – Lenglet has no role in his Barcelona project. This public stance strengthens Atlético’s negotiating position significantly.

Barcelona’s urgency to move the French defender creates leverage for any interested clubs.

Contract Complications

Talks between the clubs have stalled over wage distribution. Neither Atlético nor Barcelona want to shoulder the full financial burden of Lenglet’s premium contract.

Three key sticking points:

1. Salary percentage each club covers
2. Contract length for any loan deal
3. Termination clauses if Barcelona cut ties completely

Season-End Showdown

A crucial meeting scheduled for the end of the current season will determine Lenglet’s future. All three parties reportedly want resolution, but financial terms remain the major obstacle.

Barcelona need the wage space. Atlético want defensive reinforcement. Lenglet seeks regular playing time.

The numbers must add up for this transfer triangle to work.

Bottom Line

This saga represents Barcelona’s ongoing struggle with Bartomeu-era contracts. Lenglet’s situation mirrors similar issues the club faces with other overpaid, underused players.

Atlético’s patient approach could pay dividends if they wait long enough for Barcelona’s desperation to peak. The summer transfer window will reveal which strategy succeeds.