World Cup champion unlikely to secure Barcelona move this summer despite interest – Report | OneFootball

Aymeric Laporte may have emerged as a player FC Barcelona admire, but a move to the Camp Nou this summer currently looks difficult to imagine.

The 32-year-old centre-back strengthened his reputation with an excellent World Cup for Spain, forming a highly successful partnership with Pau Cubarsi as La Roja lifted the trophy.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Laporte is aware of Barcelona’s interest, but he continues to refer any potential negotiations back to Athletic Club, where he remains under contract until 2028.

One of the biggest obstacles is the defender’s release clause.

Recent reports had suggested Laporte could be available for less than €15 million, a figure that would have made him an extremely attractive opportunity for Barca.

However, the latest information claims his actual clause is considerably higher.

Athletic are also known for taking a firm position in these situations and would be expected to point interested clubs towards the contractual figure rather than willingly negotiate a reduced deal.

The relationship between Barcelona and Athletic is another complication following the tension surrounding Nico Williams in recent summers.

Barcelona interest has not developed into negotiations

There is also an important difference between admiration and an active operation.

Hansi Flick and Deco already believe they have enough centre-backs unless there is a significant departure. Pau Cubarsi, Ronald Araujo, Eric Garcia, Andreas Christensen and Gerard Martin give the coach several options.

Laporte would certainly be appealing after proving how well he can complement Cubarsi, but adding another expensive defender makes little sense without first creating space.

For Barca supporters, the idea is naturally tempting. Reuniting Spain’s World Cup-winning centre-back partnership at club level would offer immediate chemistry and experience.

However, the finances, Athletic’s negotiating position and Barcelona’s existing depth all point in the same direction.

Unless the defensive market changes significantly, Laporte looks more like a player Barca appreciate than one they are genuinely positioned to sign this summer.