Barcelona’s plans are evolving both on and off the pitch. A Barcelona loanee is set to debut in the highly anticipated clash against Real Madrid, while the club is also exploring ways to offload Frenkie de Jong by 2025, potentially clearing space for marquee signings.
Barcelona Loanee Set for Debut vs Real Madrid
According to SPORT, Barcelona loanee Clement Lenglet is expected to make his first appearance for Atletico Madrid in the highly anticipated match against Real Madrid on matchday 8.
The French center-back has endured a lengthy wait since completing his transfer. However, playing in such a crucial match could be a significant reward if Diego Simeone decides to start him.
Lenglet’s journey to this moment hasn’t been easy. Before the match against Rayo Vallecano, Simeone suggested Lenglet might play. Still, the French defender remained on the bench and didn’t see any action.

Likewise, Lenglet stayed on the bench during the next match against Celta Vigo, even with Cesar Azpilicueta unavailable.
Azpilicueta’s quick adaptation to the squad has dropped Lenglet further down the ranks, placing him as the third-choice defender, even behind Reinaldo.
Lenglet’s Situation is Improving
One factor contributing to Lenglet’s limited playing time has been the delay in finalizing his transfer to Atletico Madrid. His move necessitated an extension of his contract with Barcelona, which is now valid until 2027.
This extension was essential to postpone part of his wages, enabling both clubs to establish a financial arrangement.
Despite these obstacles, Simeone has commended Lenglet for his dedication, effort, and professionalism. Nonetheless, the Atletico manager has emphasized that Lenglet must earn his spot in the team.
With Azpilicueta out due to injury and the team facing a busy schedule that necessitates rotation, Lenglet has an excellent chance to demonstrate his value.
During his time at Barcelona, he recorded three wins, two draws, and two losses, featuring a memorable 5-1 triumph against the Merengues.
Even though those victories occurred five years ago, Lenglet is well-acquainted with the pressure and intensity of a Madrid derby. Now, as part of Atletico Madrid, he aims to make his impact once more.
Barcelona’s Plan to Offload Frenkie de Jong Shifts
According to Football Insider, Barcelona is prepared to pay De Jong €18 million ($15 million) in outstanding wages if the Dutch midfielder agrees to depart the club in the summer of 2025. The former Ajax player is currently the highest-paid at the club and still has a considerable amount owed to him after deferring some of his wages during the Covid pandemic. Barcelona is now ready to settle this amount to facilitate De Jong’s departure, freeing up funds on their wage bill and allowing them to target “marquee signings” like Manchester City striker Erling Haaland.

De Jong’s future at Barcelona has been a topic of speculation for a while. The midfielder has frequently been associated with a move to Manchester United but has consistently expressed his desire to remain at Barcelona. However, the report suggests that De Jong “might” now be considering a move, especially as he faces a challenge to reclaim his starting position. The Dutch star has been sidelined since April due to an ankle injury and has watched as young players like Marc Bernal, Marc Casado, Fermin Lopez, and Pablo Torre have excelled for the club in recent months.
De Jong is nearing a long-awaited comeback for Barcelona. Manager Hansi Flick stated at a press conference on Friday: “I liked what I saw in training. Gavi too. They are increasing the pace of training. Frenkie is close to returning. We will see what happens next week.”
What Next for Barcelona
Barcelona has enjoyed a flawless start to the new La Liga campaign despite missing De Jong and several other injured players. Flick’s team has won its opening seven matches consecutively and will face Osasuna on Saturday as it returns to action.
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