Barcelona’s interest in World Cup winner risks renewing tensions with La Liga rivals

FC Barcelona’s interest in Aymeric Laporte could reignite tensions with Athletic Club, where memories of the lengthy Nico Williams transfer saga remain fresh, reports SPORT.

After helping Spain win the World Cup alongside Pau Cubarsi, Laporte has emerged as one of the defensive targets being considered by the Blaugrana as they look to strengthen their backline.

However, any attempt to sign the defender is expected to face strong resistance from the Basque club.

Barcelona exploring Laporte option

Barcelona have already made initial contact with people close to Laporte to explore the feasibility of a move.

The club values several aspects of the defender’s profile: his left-footedness, experience at the highest level, strong understanding with Cubarsí during the World Cup, and a reported release clause of around €12.5 million, making him an attractive option in the current market.

Within Barcelona, there is also hope that Laporte could provide the same kind of leadership and stability that Inigo Martinez, another former Athletic Club defender, brought to the squad.

Laporte enjoyed a fine World Cup with Spain. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)

Unease in Bilbao

News of Barcelona’s interest has been poorly received in Bilbao. Athletic are still recovering from the uncertainty created by Barcelona’s pursuit of Nico Williams, a saga that stretched across two summers before the winger ultimately signed a contract extension until 2035.

Although that episode ended with Williams staying at San Mames, it strained relations between the two clubs.

Laporte’s name now emerging on Barcelona’s shortlist has once again generated frustration among supporters and within the club.

Athletic only re-signed Laporte from Al-Nassr last summer after paying €10 million, and his outstanding World Cup performances have only increased his value.

Athletic confident, but wary

Despite the speculation, there is confidence in Bilbao that Laporte remains committed to the club. The defender chose to return to Athletic for family and personal reasons, and those close to him have no immediate plans to seek another move.

On Barcelona’s radar. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Nevertheless, there is understandable caution, especially given Laporte’s history.

In January 2018, the defender activated his release clause to leave Athletic for Manchester City, setting a precedent that has left some within the club wary of history repeating itself.

New Athletic head coach Edin Terzic also commented on the situation earlier this week, saying:

“I don’t think this is a new story, perhaps just with a different name.”

His remarks were widely interpreted as a reference to Barcelona’s previous pursuit of Nico and a reminder that Athletic are determined to avoid another prolonged transfer saga.

Barcelona proceeding carefully

Despite their interest, Barcelona are expected to approach any potential deal with caution.

While Laporte is viewed as a strong candidate to reinforce Flick’s defense, the La Liga champions are aware of the delicate relationship with Athletic and the sensitivity surrounding any negotiations involving one of the Basque club’s key players.

For now, discussions remain at an exploratory stage, with Barcelona assessing the feasibility of a move before deciding whether to advance their interest.