Otamendi's successor at Benfica could yet be… Clément Lenglet | OneFootball

Clément Lenglet is the latest name being linked with Benfica to strengthen the heart of the defense. The French international, currently under contract with Atlético de Madrid, has emerged as one of the options being considered by the Eagles’ hierarchy to fill the void left by Nicolás Otamendi’s departure.

According to Spanish newspaper ABC, the center-back could leave the Madrid club in this summer transfer window and move to the Luz. Lenglet has several of the characteristics Benfica are looking for in the position. In addition to his vast experience in top leagues, the defender is left-footed, one of the profiles the club’s decision-makers want to add to the squad.

At 31, the French international is under contract with Atlético de Madrid until 2028 and has played for some of Europe’s biggest clubs, having represented Nancy, Sevilla, Barcelona, Tottenham, Aston Villa and, most recently, the Colchoneros. Last season, he featured in 24 official matches and recorded one assist.

Despite the reports linking Lenglet with Benfica, Milan Skriniar continues to appear as the main candidate to strengthen the Eagles’ defense. During the General Assembly held last Saturday, Rui Costa confirmed that the club has already secured the signing of an experienced center-back, without revealing the player’s identity.

Asked by João Diogo Manteigas whether the chosen player would be José María Giménez, of Atlético de Madrid, or Skriniar, currently at Fenerbahçe, the Benfica president replied only: "It’s not Giménez." The statement ruled out the Uruguayan international and strengthened the possibility of the Slovak international being the one chosen to take the place left by Otamendi in the center of Benfica’s defense.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.