It has been reported that Barcelona is not benefiting from Clement Lenglet’s loan at Aston Villa as they seek to let go of the defender in the summer.
Despite starting the last three games to cover for the injured Pau Torres, the French international has only played 242 minutes of Premier League action.
The defender, who is still having trouble making an impression at Villa Park, is described as “another [deal] that becomes complicated” by the Spanish publication Sport. Barca hoped that his time on loan at Villa would result in a “definite” sale.
This isn’t the case right now. Lenglet, who has virtually never done so in the Premier League this season, was unable to capitalize on Pau Torres’ discomfort in order to clear his name,” Sport continues. “Disastrous news for Barca’s aspirations in the market with a player who is one of the highest earners in the squad and who has a contract until 2026, but who is not in Xavi’s plans.”
Unai Emery praised Lenglet’s professionalism and stated he was pleased with the player during a recent press conference. “He is a very good professional and we have been working with him every day to try to understand our style,” he stated. Even on the days when the players had the day off, he would come in to work extra.
“I’m chatting with Lenglet and letting him know how pleased I am with him. He’s essential to the team and to me. We came to an agreement for him to assist us on behalf of the club. Nothing in that relationship has, in my opinion, altered.” When the defender’s loan period ends in the summer, Villa will not have the option to purchase him.
