According to Spanish outlet Marca, Barcelona and one of their high-earning players are in the process of mutually ending his contract a year ahead of schedule, with the player expected to sign with Atletico Madrid.
The Catalan club is actively seeking bold solutions for players who no longer fit into new coach Hansi Flick’s plans. Those deemed surplus to requirements are being moved on to both ease the financial strain and make room for new signings ahead of next season.
Atletico Madrid, meanwhile, is also working to bolster its squad. With a spot in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, the team is aiming to bounce back from a disappointing campaign under Diego Simeone.
One key name is Clement Lenglet, whose contract with Barcelona runs until June 2026. Negotiations are underway to end his deal early, but discussions have proven complicated due to his hefty €16 million gross salary.
Atletico, impressed by Lenglet’s performance during his loan spell last season, is keen to bring him in permanently. They want him available for the Club World Cup, which is set to begin shortly.
For Barcelona, offloading Lenglet and his high wages is a top priority this summer, both to improve their financial flexibility and to push forward with their transfer plans