Athletic Club have denied one of the recent reports surrounding Aymeric Laporte and insist that any potential deal would be far more expensive.
FC Barcelona’s interest in Aymeric Laporte continues to generate headlines across the transfer market. Recent reports suggested the defender could be available for a relatively low fee. However, Athletic Club have now responded to reject those claims.
According to recent reports, the Bilbao-based club believe the published figures do not reflect reality. They reportedly insist the cost of signing Laporte would be significantly higher. That response has complicated the transfer speculation surrounding the defender.
Athletic deny the reported release clause
According to SPORT, Athletic Club firmly reject claims that Laporte has a release clause worth between €12 million and €15 million. Those figures had fueled speculation about a possible move from Barça this summer. The Basque club insist that information is incorrect.
Club officials reportedly maintain that any interested side would need to make a much larger financial commitment. They have no intention of letting one of their key defensive targets leave for a discounted price. That message has cooled expectations around the operation.
Barça would have to pay much more
The reports indicate that Athletic Club value the deal at roughly double the amount previously mentioned. Such a price would make the transfer considerably more difficult for FC Barcelona. It would also affect Deco’s plans as he continues evaluating defensive reinforcements.
The sporting department is still considering several options before making a final decision. Strengthening the back line remains one of the club’s priorities this summer. Financial Fair Play limitations will also play a decisive role in any move.
A transfer still waiting to unfold
Despite the disagreement over the transfer fee, the market remains open and circumstances could still change. Barça continue searching for the best solution to strengthen Hansi Flick’s squad before the deadline. The financial conditions will ultimately determine whether the operation can move forward.
The twist is clear: Barça remain interested in Laporte, but Athletic’s firm stance has made the deal far more complicated than first expected.
Caution note: At the time of writing, there is no official agreement involving FC Barcelona, Athletic Club, or Aymeric Laporte, and the reported figures remain unconfirmed.
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