Barcelona and Tottenham in advanced negotiations for Inter Milan defensive target

Barcelona and Tottenham Hotspur have started advanced negotiations for Clement Lenglet in the recent hours, according to a report published by SPORT.

The Catalans hope to get €12 million for the centre-back, and talks were sped up after Barcelona informed Spurs that there were other parties interested in signing him in the summer.

Lenglet has been on loan at Tottenham since the 2022/23 season started, but his loan deal did not include an option to buy him on a permanent transfer. The Frenchman also reduced his salary before joining them, while Spurs took on most of his new salary onto their wage bill.

Antonio Conte was key in bringing the transfer to fruition, but the Italian coach has since been sacked as the Tottenham coach.

While his performances have not been particularly convincing, the English outfit are looking to reinforce the team ahead of the 2023/24 season before a new manager arrives.

Inter Milan have reportedly also inquired about Lenglet in a meeting held earlier between the two clubs. The Italian giants also had the names of fellow left-footed defenders, Jordi Alba, and Samuel Umtiti, on their table.

Lenglet already knows that he is not part of Barcelona’s plans next season, and is fine with leaving.

The Catalans already have Jules Kounde, Ronald Araujo, Eric Garcia, and Marcos Alonso on their roster for next season, and have also reportedly completed the signing of Inigo Martinez from Athletic Club.

They also have to deal with the return of Samuel Umtiti, who is also on loan for the rest of the season – at Lecce.