Barcelona Mulls Lenglet's Loan Termination with AC Milan Interest Looming

Barcelona is contemplating terminating defender Clement Lenglet’s loan to Aston Villa in January, seeking funds for their own transfers in 2024. Lenglet, who has yet to feature in the Premier League for Villa, may return to Barcelona, which aims to sell him in the upcoming transfer window. AC Milan has reportedly expressed interest in signing the 28-year-old, with a move to San Siro being a potential option for the French international.

Despite earning around £204,000-a-week at Barcelona, it remains uncertain how much of Lenglet’s salary is covered by Villa. AC Milan’s interest adds a layer of intrigue to the player’s potential move, as sources suggest the Serie A club is considering acquiring Lenglet in the new year.

Lenglet’s playing time at Villa has been limited, making five starts in the Europa Conference League but being left out entirely in a recent draw against Zrinjski Mostar. Although on the bench for Premier League fixtures, he has not yet been called upon by manager Unai Emery.

Having spent the 2022-23 season on loan at Spurs, where he made 35 appearances across all competitions, Lenglet’s return to Barcelona poses questions about his future. With a contract until June 2026, his potential departure from Villa could shape the defensive dynamics at both clubs.

Aston Villa, currently second in the Premier League and progressing in the Europa Conference League, boasts a strong defensive lineup with Pau Torres, Diego Carlos, and Ezri Konsa regularly featuring under Emery in the 2023-24 campaign. As the January transfer window approaches, the fate of Lenglet’s loan and his potential move to AC Milan will undoubtedly be closely monitored by football enthusiasts.