Atlético Madrid Closes Another Disappointing Season. Despite Last Summer's Signings Like Julián Álvarez, Simeone's team hasn't met expectations. In Copa del Rey, they were eliminated by Barça in a match that once again showed the shortcomings of the colchonero team against top-level teams.
In the Champions League, the blow was even more painful: their elimination came at the hands of Real Madrid. In La Liga, the team has lost steam in recent matches and has already fallen out of the title race. All this has set off alarms at the Metropolitano, where they are already thinking about another busy summer in the transfer market.
Atlético Madrid Will Return to the Market and Sets Sights on Barça
With an eye on next season, Atlético plans to move aggressively in the market, just as they did last year. In this regard, the colchonero team has reportedly set their sights on Barça. One of the names Simeone likes the most is Fermín López, a midfielder with character, drive, and energy, ideal for the style the Argentine coach seeks.
However, Barça doesn't consider his departure. Fermín is an important piece for the future, and the blaugrana club fully trusts his progression. Additionally, he is a player trained in the youth academy and under contract, so his departure doesn't seem viable unless an out-of-market offer arrives.
The Rojiblancos Accelerate to Close the Deal
Another name on Atlético's list is Clément Lenglet. The Frenchman, currently on loan from Barça to the colchonero team, has had an acceptable performance, without fanfare, but fulfilling when he has had to play. At the Metropolitano, they value his experience, his knowledge of La Liga, and his left-footed profile, which is uncommon among top-level central defenders.
Therefore, Atlético would be interested in finalizing his transfer permanently this summer. At Barça, the operation is seen favorably, especially because the defender isn't part of the sports plans for next season. Additionally, the main objective at Can Barça is to relieve the wage bill and offload players who aren't part of the new project.
The Offer Is Low, but Barça Wants to Free Up the Salary
According to "El Nacional," Atlético has already put an offer of 6 million for Lenglet on the table. A figure that, at first glance, seems low for an international central defender with experience in European competitions. However, in Barça's current context, it could be enough to unlock the operation.
The need to cut costs and lighten salaries is a priority for the blaugrana club, and Lenglet has one of the highest salaries among players without prominence. Therefore, accepting those 6 million could not only mean income but also a significant financial relief. A quiet but effective exit that would help make room for the signings to come.