Athletic Club defender Laporte is waiting on Barcelona's offer
Aymeric Laporte is the perfect defender for Barcelona's future. That's the conclusion the club have reached, making him the top priority when it comes to signing players this summer.
Barça have no doubts about his ability, but the 50 million euro release clause scares them. Meanwhile, Manchester City have been working on him and are close to doing a deal, although Laporte is waiting for Barça. If they go all in, the French defender knows which project he wants to be part of.
Both Barcelona and City are aware it could be one of the biggest deals of the summer. Laporte has a special bond with Athletic and the player and his representatives have asked that the first movement is made directly to the Basques.
There is no room for negotiation with Athletic, though. They do not sell their stars for less than the release clause.
Despite that, there have been moves to find out the French player's intentions. And Barça mave made it clear that, to grow even more as a player, he would be best off in a blaugrana shirt training daily against the world's best forwards.
They can't promise he will start each week, but his huge potential to grow will make him a fundamental part of the club's future. The sporting project on offer can't be beaten, but Barça know they can't pass certain numbers due to their salary limit.
City have also spoken with the player. He is one of their primary targets and they are ready to pay the release clause to take Laporte to the Premier League.
They are convinced they can sign the player, but his representatives have not ruled anything out - even the possibility of remaining at San Mames for another year, where he is comfortable and still growing.
But some trains only pass once and this summer he will be one of the most sought-after players.
Barça only have doubts about the price. It will prove costly to get the deal done. If they decide to make the move, they can be the team to secure his signature, though. The coming weeks will be absolutely key.
