F.C. Barcelona can officially confirm that they have managed to grab the services of French defender Clement Lenglet. The Catalans were optimistic about signing the former Sevilla man since the beginning of the transfer window. Ernesto Valverde’s side confirmed the news having paid their Andalusian rivals. Barcelona paid the 23 year old’s ex club his release clause of €35.9 million.
Clement Lenglet’s signing comes after Josep Bartomeu managed to sign Arthur Melo on a six year deal from Brazilian outfit Gremio. Clement Lenglet is a promising star and at only 23, he has 52 appearances for Sevilla under his belt. In his first full season at the club, Lenglet was instrumental as Sevilla finished 7th in the La Liga last season.
Credible news source ESPN FC also named the former Nancy centre back in their Champions League Best XI when Sevilla got the better of Manchester United to progress into the competition’s quarter finals.
Barcelona have announced that their latest signing will be presented as their new player on Friday. The French youngster will also sign his contract with Barcelona at the Camp Nou at his unveiling.
Clement Lenglet has been brought in by the defending La Liga champions to strengthen their backline. The 23 year old will join the backline along with Gerard Pique, Samuel Umtiti and Yerry Mina soon.
Josep Bartomeu has also decided to add a release clause worth £265 million in Lenglet’s contract to keep future interest in his new recruit at bay. Having not been a participant in the FIFA World Cup with France, the centre back will be joining his latest club on their pre-season trip to the United States where they come up against Tottenham, Roma and Milan in the International Champions Cup.
