Athletic Club Close Door on Barcelona Move for Aymeric Laporte
Barcelona’s search for defensive reinforcements has suffered a setback after Athletic Club made it clear that Aymeric Laporte is not available this summer.
The experienced Spanish centre-back had recently emerged as a possible option for Hansi Flick’s squad after impressing during the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside Barcelona youngster Pau Cubarsi in Spain’s defence.
Laporte’s quality on the ball, leadership and experience in a possession-based system made him an attractive profile for Barcelona, especially as the club continues to evaluate options to strengthen the centre-back position.
However, Athletic Club have now moved to dismiss the speculation surrounding the former Manchester City defender.
Athletic deny Barcelona contact
Athletic Club sporting director Mikel Gonzalez confirmed that Barcelona have not made any approach for Laporte, despite reports suggesting that talks could take place between the two clubs.
“We have not received any contact, official or unofficial, from Barcelona regarding Aymeric Laporte,” Gonzalez explained.
He also insisted that no negotiations are currently happening and suggested that recent reports linking the player with a move to Camp Nou are simply rumours.
“At this moment, there are no discussions between the clubs. Everything being said in the media does not reflect reality,” he added.
Laporte remains a key player for Athletic
The Basque club also made their position clear regarding Laporte’s future, insisting that the defender remains an important part of their plans for the new season.
Athletic value the 32-year-old’s defensive ability, passing quality and experience, especially as they prepare for another competitive campaign.
Gonzalez emphasised that the club has no intention of allowing Laporte to leave during the current transfer window.
“Laporte is a fundamental player for us. We trust his ability, experience and importance to the team,” he said.
“Aymeric Laporte will remain with Athletic Club and will not leave this summer because we consider him a key figure in our squad.”
Barcelona must explore other defensive options
The latest development means Barcelona may need to look elsewhere if Hansi Flick decides that another central defender is required before the transfer window closes.
Although the club already has several options in defence, including Pau Cubarsi, Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen and Eric Garcia, Barcelona remain aware that adding another top-level defender could improve their chances in major competitions.
For now, however, Laporte’s future appears settled — and Barcelona will have to continue searching for alternatives.