Cadena SER journalist Pedro Fullana reported that all three players have been identified as departures by Atletico Madrid's hierarchy, though in different circumstances. Antoine Griezmann's exit as a free agent at the end of June represents an additional significant change to the squad that manager Diego Simeone will build from next season.
Lenglet, 30, joined Atlético from Villarreal in 2023 and is contracted until June 2028. He has been criticised on a number of occasions this season by supporters and sections of the Spanish media, and his departure is described by the source as the most straightforward of the three. The club would prefer to sell him rather than terminate the contract early.
Giménez, 31, has been at the club since 2013 and was the subject of significant interest last January — with Premier League clubs including Chelsea and Manchester United both linked. The Uruguayan defender requested a move at the time but the deal did not materialise. He will push again this summer. Atlético value him at around €20million.
Vargas, 22, joined from Seattle Sounders in February for €3million on a contract until June 2030. The Mexican international has made ten appearances — nine in La Liga and one in the Copa del Rey — and has performed well in limited opportunities, but Atlético's midfield is congested and the club believe he needs more regular football to develop before he can compete for a starting role.
The club also remains open to selling Julián Álvarez and Alexander Sørloth if the right offers arrive. Atlético reached the Champions League semi-finals before losing to Arsenal, and Simeone will demand a squad capable of challenging for the title next season. Raising funds through sales is a necessary precondition for the arrivals that will follow.