Barcelona target has ‘concrete chances’ to leave Man City in the summer – Romano

Earlier this week, reports emerged in Spain claiming that Manchester City defender Aymeric Laporte had decided to leave the club in the summer and was particularly keen on joining Barcelona.

Corroborating those claims, Fabrizio Romano has now reported that Laporte has ‘concrete chances’ of leaving Manchester City in the summer transfer window, handing Barcelona a potential boost in their pursuit of the Spanish international.

The update from the Italian transfer expert adds that Manchester City have identified Josko Gvardiol as their primary target for the summer amid Laporte’s uncertain future. And there will be many clubs, including Barcelona, keeping tabs on the 28-year-old’s situation.

Laporte has been with Man City since January 2018 and has been critical to their success under Pep Guardiola during his tenure at the Etihad. However, the left-footed centre-half has lost his prominence in the team of late, with the manager preferring Nathan Ake ahead of him.

As a result, Laporte has seemingly decided to move on in the summer and Barcelona are interested in a move.

The Blaugrana have been following the 28-year-old for nearly a decade and have made failed attempts to sign him in the past. But with the opportunity likely to present itself in the summer, they intend to capitalise.

Barcelona lack a left-footed centre-back in their current roster and signing someone like Laporte, who is experienced at the highest level and still has his best years in front of him could be a smart move.

However, any attempt to sign the former Athletic Club defender will largely depend on the club’s Financial Fair Play situation and the transfer fee that Man City demand for him, given that his contract runs until 2025.

For now, what seems to be clear is that Laporte could be on the move come summer and Barcelona will be among the suitors for the Spanish defender. Whether they are successful in their pursuit is a different matter, however.