Atletico Madrid are now seriously considering the possibility of keeping Clement Lenglet beyond the current season, as per a report from AS.
The French centre-back, currently on loan from Barcelona, has grown into a reliable figure under Diego Simeone and is seen as a player who could continue contributing in the long term.
Lenglet has featured in 29 matches for Atletico this season, starting 27 of them and clocking up 2,457 minutes — the eighth highest in the squad.
Interestingly, while he has had the occasional off-day, his overall performances have impressed the coaching staff.
Simeone trusts Lenglet
It is said that Lenglet’s left-footed profile and composure on the ball have added balance to Atletico’s defence, qualities Simeone values highly in his system.
The Frenchman has also started eight of the last nine matches he has been available for, showing his growing importance to the team.
As a result, Atletico believe there is a role for him moving forward, especially if he continues to deliver steady performances during these remaining matchdays.
His current form could push the club to make a serious move to secure him permanently.
Barcelona situation opens a window
Back at Barcelona, it is clear that Lenglet has no clear future. The Catalan club is not planning to include him in their long-term squad plans, and more importantly, they cannot afford to take him back due to his high salary.
This puts Atletico in a strong position. Barcelona need to offload him, but Lenglet’s improved displays have also raised his market value, making the situation more complex.
Atletico are aware of the opportunity. If Lenglet continues to shine, it could prompt the club to act decisively before other suitors enter the frame.
For now, he remains a regular in Simeone’s lineup, with his future increasingly pointing towards Madrid rather than Barcelona.
