Full Breakdown
Aymeric Laporte Unlikely to Join Barcelona for the 2026-27 Season
7/27/2026, 2:15:43 PM
Current Transfer Outlook
Barcelona’s sporting management has indicated that the 32-year-old centre-back will not be part of the club’s plans for the 2026-27 campaign. Reports from the Catalan newspaper *Mundo Deportivo* cite head coach Hansi Flick’s assessment that the squad already possesses sufficient defensive options, removing any urgent need to sign Laporte. Consequently, the club is not expected to engage in negotiations with Athletic Bilbao for the player’s services.
Background and Contract Situation
Aymeric Laporte, a former Manchester City defender, played a starring role for Spain as the nation secured the 2026 World Cup title. His performances reignited speculation about a reunion with fellow Spanish defender Pau Cubarsí at Barcelona. Laporte’s contract with Athletic Bilbao runs until 2028 and, according to the *Goal* article, contains no release clause, meaning any Barcelona move would require direct talks with the Basque club. Historically, Laporte’s 2018 transfer to Manchester City was triggered by a €65 million release clause. A later report from *Get Football News Spain* mentions an alleged €15 million release clause in his current contract, though this figure conflicts with earlier information.
Official Statements & Responses
*Mundo Deportivo* relayed that Barcelona’s hierarchy does not view Laporte as a priority for the upcoming season. Coach Hansi Flick is quoted as believing the existing defensive roster—featuring players such as Eric García, Andreas Christensen, Ronald Araújo, Jules Koundé and the emerging Álvaro Cortés—provides adequate depth. The club’s reluctance also reflects a desire to avoid the administrative complications experienced during the Nico Williams transfer saga of 2024-2025.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The two sources differ on the financial terms that might facilitate a move. *Goal* references the historic €65 million clause that Manchester City paid in 2018, while *Get Football News Spain* cites an alleged €15 million release clause in Laporte’s current deal. Neither outlet provides definitive confirmation of the present clause, leaving the exact contractual barrier unclear.
Implications for Barcelona’s Defence
With Laporte off the table, Barcelona is expected to rely on its existing back-line and the development of younger talents such as Álvaro Cortés. The decision also signals a broader strategic approach by the club to sidestep potentially complex negotiations and focus on internal squad stability following recent transfer controversies.
