Barcelona have no plans to retain 29-year-old outcast despite impressive pre-season displays

There has been an interesting development with regard to Clement Lenglet’s standing at Barcelona lately.

Earlier in the summer, he was regarded as an outcast and a liability to the Barcelona defence, even topping the list of players who could leave the club this summer.

However, during the US tour, new coach Hansi Flick appears to have shown a favourable attitude towards Lenglet, with the German being particularly impressed by his performances.

Why Barcelona won’t retain Lenglet

That said, a recent report from SPORT has clarified that Barcelona will not change their outlook on Lenglet despite the recent green shoots.

This is primarily because of the fact that the Frenchman commands a hefty salary package. His salary and amortisation combined could cost Barça a figure of around €19 million if he stays at Camp Nou till the end of his contract.

This could have a significant bearing on the club’s finances, especially at a time when the Catalans are looking to ease the burden on the wage bill.

What does the future have in store for Lenglet? (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Another reason why Barcelona will look to sell Lenglet is the competitive intensity around him, especially in the central defensive position.

Barça indeed have several central defenders ahead of Lenglet in the pecking order.

This list includes Eric Garcia, who is coming on the back of a stellar loan spell with Girona and Inigo Martinez, whose experience could be crucial heading into the new season.

Barcelona also have established names such as Jules Kounde, Andreas Christensen and Ronald Araujo as well as bright star Pau Cubarsi.

Keeping hold of Lenglet, therefore, won’t make much sense for Barcelona, as they desperately look to trim the squad and add more space in the wage bill this summer.