Clément Lenglet has completed a move to Benfica, the Portuguese club confirmed on Tuesday evening. The defender joins on a loan deal spanning until the end of the 2026-2027 season, which includes a mandatory purchase clause that will see him contracted to Benfica until 2029. The agreement brings an end to his time with Atlético Madrid and reunites him with a club competing at the highest level of European football.
Lenglet expressed his enthusiasm for the move in an interview with Benfica’s television channel, stating that the project felt like a “very good” opportunity for his career. He highlighted Benfica’s ambition to compete for both domestic and international titles as a key factor in his decision. The 31-year-old will be looking to establish himself as a key figure in Benfica’s defense after a period of relative instability in his club career.
The France international arrives at Benfica following two seasons with Atlético Madrid, where he made 24 appearances, starting 21 of those matches. Prior to his spell in the Spanish capital, Lenglet had stints with Sevilla, Tottenham Hotspur, FC Barcelona, and Aston Villa, showcasing his experience across several top European leagues. He initially rose to prominence during his time at Sevilla in the 2017-2018 season, before earning a move to Barcelona.
Benfica have been seeking defensive reinforcement following the departure of Nicolás Otamendi to River Plate. Lenglet’s arrival directly addresses this need, providing coach Roger Schmidt with a seasoned centre-back option. With 16 international caps for France, Lenglet brings both quality and experience to the Benfica squad, strengthening their chances of challenging for silverware on multiple fronts. This transfer represents a significant addition for the Portuguese giants as they prepare for the upcoming season and potential Champions League commitments.
