Barcelona are rushing to make important decisions about their season even before the ball rolls in LaLiga: the departure of Clément Lenglet. The French defender, who once had moments of brilliance, has now become more of a burden than a key cog in the club's defense. And let's be honest, the player's imminent departure could be just what Barça need to breathe a sigh of relief.
With a salary of 16 million euros a year and two years left on his contract, Lenglet has gone from being a solution to a financial problem for Barcelona. Even with Deco's return to the club, now as sporting director, the defender's situation remains delicate. According to the newspaper Marca, Barça and Lenglet's agent, Gregory Dakad, are already discussing the terms of a loan that could relieve the club's coffers and open up space for new signings, as well as bringing the team into line with Financial Fair Play requirements.
It's true that Lenglet isn't a bad player, but he also left something to be desired and made a few mistakes. What's more, Barcelona, despite their name and history, are going through a period of adjustment and can't afford to keep a player who doesn't deliver what his exorbitant salary suggests. And, let's face it, that money could be put to better use.
The soap opera involving Lenglet has been going on since the end of last season. The Frenchman spent the last two seasons on loan at Premier League clubs such as Tottenham and Aston Villa, but without much of note. And now, with his return to the Culés, it's clear that he's no longer part of the club's long-term plans. With Ronald Araújo injured and Jules Koundé being used more at right-back, Barcelona's defense needs stability and a player like Lenglet, who hasn't managed to establish himself even in England, is certainly not the answer.
The interested parties in signing Lenglet, Atlético de Madrid and Villarreal, seem more inclined to a quick deal. And that's exactly what Barcelona need. A loan with an option to buy would be the ideal solution for all parties involved. Barça would lighten their payroll, the player would have the chance to redeem himself at another Spanish club, and the potential buyer would not make an immediate financial commitment.
Ultimately, Lenglet's imminent departure is good news for Barcelona. Not only from a financial point of view, but also in terms of sporting planning. The club needs players who can deliver more for less, not bloated contracts that weigh down the wage bill without the expected return on the pitch.
If Barça manage to close this deal, be it with Atlético de Madrid, Villarreal or any other interested club, it will be a big step towards balancing the squad and focusing on what really matters: becoming competitive again in both LaLiga and the Champions League. Therefore, selling Lenglet or even loaning him out with an option to buy seems to be the best decision Barcelona can make right now.