Veteran Spanish defender was interested in Barcelona move this summer – here’s why the move did not go through | OneFootball

Barcelona came closer to exploring an Aymeric Laporte transfer this summer than previously understood, with The Athletic revealing that the Spain international was interested in joining the Catalan club.

Laporte emerged as a potential solution to one of Barcelona’s clearest recruitment priorities: finding a left-footed centre-back capable of filling the role previously occupied by Inigo Martinez. 

As per the outlet, the club initially believed a deal could be possible for around €15 million.

However, that expectation changed once Athletic Club made their financial demands clear, which were considerably higher. 

Barcelona considered the asking price too high and withdrew before the idea developed into formal negotiations, meaning Laporte never came particularly close to becoming a Barça player.

Laporte fitted the profile Barcelona were searching for

Aymeric Laporte wanted to sign for Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Barcelona’s recruitment work included a specific search for a left-footed option who could offer a similar profile to Inigo Martinez.

Laporte naturally fitted that description. The experienced Spanish defender was also interested in the possibility of moving to Camp Nou, giving the idea credibility from both sides.

There was believed to be an affordable release clause that had been communicated by Laporte’s camp, which prompted Barcelona to examine whether the operation could be financially viable.

The €15 million figure initially appeared to make the transfer attainable, although Athletic Club’s position ultimately told a different story, with their demands considerably higher than Barcelona had anticipated.

Given the strained relationship between the two clubs following the previous Nico Williams saga, Barça had little appetite for pushing the situation into prolonged negotiations.

Another centre-back option also disappears

Athletic Club’s demands for Laporte were too high. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

For what it is worth, Laporte was not the only route Barcelona explored for the position.

The club subsequently considered Ruud Nystad, but that possibility also failed to materialise. 

With both options gone, Barcelona ended the window without adding the left-footed centre-back they had been seeking.

That leaves the position as an area Barcelona could revisit when the January transfer window opens.

Despite missing out on Laporte and failing to reinforce the position, Barcelona are still understood to be satisfied with their overall summer business.