Barcelona loanee remains a target for AC Milan despite growing prominence at current club – report

Barcelona loanee defender Clement Lenglet did not enjoy the greatest of starts to his new life at Aston Villa. The French defender was initially ousted by Unai Emery and his appearances were limited to just the UEFA Conference League.

Amidst this difficult period, the former Sevilla defender gathered interest from elsewhere and Serie A side Milan appeared as frontrunners. 

Over the past few weeks, however, Lenglet has gained prominence within the Aston Villa team and while his run in the starting XI has increased, Milan’s interest has not deterred one bit, reports SPORT.

Milan insistent, but deal difficult 

Reports from Italy have indicated that Milan are keen on acquiring Lenglet’s signature to bolster their defensive setup. 

Among the list of defenders they have shortlisted, including Jakob Kiwior from Arsenal and Trevoh Chalobah from Chelsea, Lenglet happens to be topping the list.

Lenglet has started each of Aston Villa’s last four league matches. (Photo by Adam Nurkiewicz/Getty Images)

However, the potential transfer is expected to be extremely difficult due to the involvement of multiple parties, including representatives from Barcelona, Milan, Aston Villa, and the player himself.

Upturn in fortune

Back when Lenglet was loaned to Aston Villa, it was made clear that he had no place in Xavi’s plans. His tenure with the Birmingham club, however, did not start as he would have hoped as until December 22, last year, he had not accumulated any playing minutes in the Premier League.

The Frenchman was overlooked by Emery, who utilized him exclusively in Conference League fixtures. However, the scenario has evolved, with the Frenchman now amassing over 300 minutes in four Premier League appearances.

And now, his reluctance to depart from Villa arises from his recent regular inclusion in the starting lineup, having earned a starting role in the last few matches as over the last few weeks, he has started in Aston Villa’s last five matches, four in the Premier League and one in the League Cup.