Senior defensive player on whom Barcelona has an eye, Athletic Club put an eye on
Barcelona are interested in Aymeric Laporte, who Athletic Club values at €80 million, to strengthen their defence. However, negotiations are unlikely due to the high valuation and past issues between the two clubs.
Senior defense player on whom Barcelona has its eye, Athletic Club put attention
According to Sports.Background
Aymeric Laporte, who has previously played for Man City, has performed brilliantly in the recent World Cup. His defensive abilities and his understanding with Pau Quibarsi helped Spain concede just one goal, further increasing his value. Barcelona now have their sights set on the experienced defender, but Athletic Club's demands could prove to be a major hurdle.
Why it matters
The potential transfer of Aymeric Laporte is important for Barcelona to boost their defensive strength. Laporte's skill and experience, especially his partnership with Pau Coubertin, could give the team a new direction. However, the valuation of €80 million set by Athletic Club could be a big challenge for Barcelona.
Key Points
- Senior defensive player who was eyed by Barcelona, Athletic Club caught sight of him.
- Barcelona are interested in Aymeric Laporte, who Athletic Club values at €80 million, to strengthen their defence. However, negotiations are unlikely due to the high valuation and past issues between the two clubs.
- Veteran defender targeted by Barcelona valued at €80 million by La Liga outfit.
However, the response from Athletic's management team was clear, in that they insisted on his release clause and showed no willingness to negotiate a lower price. Laporte's valuation has increased after impressive performances during the World Cup, in which his cleverness with the crossbar helped Spain concede only one goal. His performances silenced critics who had questioned his inclusion in the team, and at the age of 32, he has a two-year contract with Athletic Club, to whom he worked hard to return after moving to Al-Nassr last summer.Real Madrid have also shown interest in Laporte, although it was Deco who made a concrete enquiry, only to face the same strong response. Apart from the critical evaluation, it is also possible that Barcelona are not planning to make a move for Laporte. Previous reports have indicated that Barcelona do not wish to enter into any negotiations with Athletic, especially after the Nico Williams affair, which seriously damaged relations between the two clubs. That bitter experience left no appetite for a more complicated deal with Athletic at the Camp Nou. At the same time, with Hansi Flick content with his current defensive options, it seems increasingly unlikely that Barcelona will actually make any move for Laporte, even if his quality and proven partnership with Koubarsi is evident.
What will happen next
Barcelona may now have to consider other options to strengthen their defense if talks for Aymeric Laporte are not successful. The club should focus on other potential targets such as Alessandro Bastoni. Furthermore, Athletic Club's clear position also indicates that they are not willing to leave Laporte at any cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which player has Barcelona focused on?
Barcelona have focused on Aymeric Laporte.
How much did Athletic Club value Laporte?
Athletic Club have valued Laporte at €80 million.
When did Barcelona receive information about Laporte?
Barcelona sporting director Deco learned about Laporte during the World Cup.
Why has Laporte's valuation increased?
Laporte's valuation has increased after his excellent performance in the World Cup.
Will Athletic Club negotiate to reduce Laporte's price?
Athletic Club showed no willingness to negotiate to reduce Laporte's price.
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