Barcelona are finally taking some big strides on the departure front. After facilitating the exits of players like Nico Gonzalez and Alex Collado, the club is now looking to offload some of the bigger names.
Franck Kessie and Clement Lenglet are two of the best-placed stars on that front. Both players have no shortage of suitors, and all that remains is for them to choose their next club from the various options on their table.
Lenglet has attracted interest from Serie A and the Premier League in recent weeks. Al Nassr are the latest entrant at Lenglet’s doorstep and hope to sign the player from Catalonia with a superior economic offer.
According to reports from Toni Juanmarti, the centre-back has decided to cool down his contacts with Saudi Arabia. He is focused on continuing in Europe and will look to continue playing at the highest level.
Al Nassr had opened talks with Barça over a move while there were contacts with the player’s camp as well, but he has decided to pull out of those conversations as he wishes to stay in Europe.
Two likely destinations
Tottenham Hotspur are the longest-surviving party in the race to sign the French star. After all, Lenglet played last season on loan with the London-based side.
Spurs have been interested in his permanent transfer, but talks hit a standstill owing to Barcelona’s asking price. The Catalans demanded €15 million for his move, but the London-based side refused to offer more than €5 million.
AC Milan arrived on the scene more recently and believe that the signing can be closed for €10 million.
No place in Barcelona
With the Blaugranas getting increasingly close to recruiting a new right-back, Jules Kounde, Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Eric Garcia, and Inigo Martinez will all fight it out for just two spots in central defence next season.
It is thus almost certain that Lenglet will see no minutes if he stays with the La Liga champions. After all, Xavi does not consider him part of his plans.
Lenglet is thus expected to make a final decision in the coming days. His departure will bring significant relief to the Catalan side, not only in terms of transfer fees but also on the wage bill.
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