Recent reports suggest that Manchester City defender Aymeric Laporte is keen on a transfer to FC Barcelona in the summer. According to the Spanish outlet Relevo, Laporte has even switched agents to Arturo Canales. The agent represents Barcelona’s coach Xavi.
Manchester City season
Despite Manchester City’s potential to win the historic treble this season, Laporte’s eagerness to join Barcelona has made him determined to find a new club. However, the report should be taken with a grain of salt as relevo isn’t always accurate.
Aymeric Laporte was an integral part of Manchester City’s. Unfortunately, the player has fizzled out of Pep Guardiola’s plans. He has played only 8 Premier League games this season. Manchester City on the other hand are on the cusp of winning treble. After Arsenal’s recent drop in form paved a way for City.
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The French centre-back joined Manchester City in January 2018 from Athletic Club Bilbao for a then-club-record fee of £57 million. He played a key role in City’s title-winning campaigns in the 2018/19 and 2020/21 seasons.
Barcelona and Laporte
Barcelona, on the other hand, are looking to strengthen their defence in the summer transfer window. With Gerard Pique and Samuel Umtiti both departing, Laporte could provide stability and experience at the back for the Catalan giants. Though with the rise of Ronald Araujo and new signings Kunde and Christensen it would be interesting to see Laporte fit in.
Despite Laporte’s interest in joining Barcelona, negotiations may prove to be difficult, given that Manchester City are not willing to let go of one of their key players easily. Additionally, Barcelona’s precarious financial situation may pose a challenge in securing the transfer.
If a move to Barcelona falls through, Laporte could still be on the move to a different club.
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Conclusion
In any case, Laporte’s potential departure from Manchester City could be a major blow to the club’s prospects in the coming season. However, Guardiola is known for his ability to adapt and find suitable replacements for his players, and Laporte’s move could provide an opportunity for the next generation of talent to step up and make their mark.
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