Overview
- Multiple Spanish and Portuguese outlets reported on Sunday that Lenglet is set to join Benfica, with transfer journalist Nicolò Schira saying the deal is a free transfer and a contract runs through 2028 with an option for 2029.
- Reports do not yet make clear whether Atlético agreed a contract termination or simply allowed Lenglet to leave without a fee, a distinction that will change how the club records any cost and salary relief.
- Lenglet spent two difficult seasons in Madrid, making roughly 60 appearances and collecting 21 yellow cards and two red cards as injuries and thin depth pushed him into regular action despite positional errors.
- Benfica president Rui Costa publicly promised a new centre-back at the club’s general assembly, and Portuguese outlets have named Lenglet as the player intended to replace long-serving defender Nicolás Otamendi.
- Atlético sporting director Mateu Alemany stands to gain roughly €18 million in gross salary space if Lenglet departs, which could speed up the club’s pursuit of a new central defender once the window opens.