Barcelona outcast ‘one step away’ from exit – two ways being studied to finalise operation | OneFootball

Barcelona’s roadmap for the summer transfer window in terms of new signings remains unclear and all that is known is that Joan Garcia will be a Blaugrana.

Their plan on the departure front, however, is far more clear as the Catalans are keen on getting rid of some of the deadwood to make space on the salary bill front.

As relayed by SPORT in a recent report, Clement Lenglet is one player whose future the Catalans want to resolve at the earliest. He is now ‘one step away’ from leaving the club but the manner of his departure is still unclear.

Two possible options

Lenglet seriously impressed on loan at Atletico Madrid last season and wishes to continue playing for Diego Simeone’s side with his future sorted out, especially with the FIFA Club World Cup beginning soon.

Negotiations between Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Lenglet are moving at a good pace and all parties are open to discussing a solution that works out for all. There are, thus, multiple ideas on the table.

Lenglet close to leaving Barcelona. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

Given Lenglet’s improved performances and the fact that he has now attracted interest from the Bundesliga and Saudi Arabia, Barcelona are asking for a token fee of at least €10 million if Atletico Madrid are to sign him immediately.

The Colchoneros, however, are reluctant to shell out a fee given that they have to cover 100% of his wages which are on the higher side.

A second option being explored, thus, is an extension of his loan deal with Atletico Madrid or even a letter of freedom to facilitate his transfer as long as Barcelona are given some guarantees.

For starters, they want Atletico Madrid to cover 100% of Lenglet’s salary as a non-negotiable. Further, they demand a variable payment based on performances or a high percentage of any future sale if they are to terminate the contract for free.

With all parties working towards the singular objective, it will be interesting to see how the saga pans out for Barcelona. The rapidly approaching Club World Cup, needless to say, may well prove to be a blessing in disguise.