Barcelona Close to Terminating Lenglet’s Contract Ahead of Atlético Madrid Move
According to reports from El Nacional, FC Barcelona is nearing an agreement to terminate Clément Lenglet’s contract one year early, paving the way for the French defender to join Atlético Madrid this summer.
Lenglet, whose deal runs until June 2026, is one of the club’s highest-paid players, earning approximately €16 million per year. However, he is not part of new head coach Hansi Flick’s plans, prompting the club to seek an exit strategy that would ease their financial burden and facilitate new signings.
Negotiations for a mutual termination have been difficult, primarily due to the defender’s sizable salary. Still, both sides are reportedly making progress, as Barcelona aims to reduce its wage bill and remain compliant with La Liga’s registration rules for incoming players.
Meanwhile, Atlético Madrid has emerged as a serious suitor for Lenglet. The club, preparing for next season and its participation in the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, sees the experienced center-back as a valuable addition to bolster their defensive ranks.
For Barcelona, parting ways with Lenglet would free up critical financial resources and mark a decisive step in restructuring the squad under Flick’s leadership. Final confirmation of the deal is expected in the coming days.
