Barcelona set sights on World Cup-winning defender after impressive partnership with Pau Cubarsi | OneFootball

FC Barcelona are considering a move for Aymeric Laporte after the experienced centre-back strengthened his reputation during Spain’s successful World Cup campaign.

According to SPORT, Barca are planning further contact with Laporte’s representatives to understand his situation and the conditions of a possible transfer. Initial conversations took place during Deco’s stay in the United States, with both sides agreeing to speak again after the tournament.

Laporte emerges as an attractive market opportunity

The appeal for Barcelona is easy to understand. Laporte is left-footed, experienced at the highest level and has a release clause below €15 million, making him an affordable option compared with many established defenders on the market.

Deco watched several World Cup matches in person and was reportedly impressed by the 32-year-old, particularly his leadership and ability to build attacks from defence.

His performances alongside Pau Cubarsi will only have strengthened Barca’s interest.

The pair formed an outstanding partnership for Spain, with Laporte’s experience complementing the 19-year-old’s composure and distribution. For Barcelona, there is obvious value in considering whether that understanding could be transferred directly to Hansi Flick’s team.

Barca could repeat the Inigo Martinez formula

There are clear similarities with Barcelona’s previous move for Inigo Martinez.

Like Laporte, Inigo arrived as an experienced left-footed centre-back who could offer leadership without needing years to adapt to the demands of Spanish football. He eventually became an important figure for Flick, both tactically and inside the dressing room.

Laporte could potentially provide something similar.

However, Barcelona already have considerable depth at centre-back, with Cubarsi, Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Eric Garcia and other options available. Any serious move would therefore need to make sense within the wider squad planning.

The club should also avoid signing a player purely because of an excellent World Cup. What makes Laporte interesting is that his tournament performances simply reinforced qualities he has demonstrated throughout his career.

For less than €15 million, the opportunity is certainly worth exploring.

There is no suggestion yet that a deal is advanced, and the next discussions with the player’s camp will determine whether Barcelona decide to move forward.