Earlier this week, Tottenham confirmed that Clement Lenglet will be returning to FC Barcelona following his loan spell in north London during the 2022/23 campaign.
While there was never a permanent purchase option in the loan agreement, it was believed that Spurs were interested in keeping hold of the Frenchman beyond the last season and talks had also taken place between the two clubs over a transfer.
But Lenglet’s return sparked fears that the Lilywhites might not be keen on a permanent transfer.
However, that is not the case and recent reports suggest that Barça and Tottenham are set to meet soon to discuss the Frenchman’s signing. It has been claimed that the La Liga champions will look to seek around €10-12 million for his departure.
But, according to a fresh report from SPORT, Tottenham would be willing to offer only around €5 million to sign Lenglet.
The reason behind that is said to be the defender’s steep wages. Lenglet’s salary for the next season at Barça is set to be around €10 million (net) and Spurs would be open to matching that pay packet as long as they do not have to pay a substantial transfer fee.
Barcelona, for their part, could accept such a proposal, especially if there is a high percentage of a future sale included, as they are intent on getting his salary off the books this summer.
Lenglet, for his part, would be delighted to return to Tottenham, considering that he was a starter for the Lilywhites during the 2022/23 campaign.
Much will depend on how the discussions between the two clubs progress over the coming days. With all parties keen on the deal going through, a compromise may be reached.