Barcelona have officially closed the door on a potential summer move for Athletic Club defender Aymeric Laporte, despite the 32-year-old’s outstanding performances for Spain at the 2026 World Cup.
World Cup Winner Snubbed: Barcelona Walk Away from Laporte Deal
The World Cup winner formed a formidable central defensive partnership with Barcelona’s own Pau Cubarsi throughout the tournament, helping La Roja concede just one goal on their way to glory.
That chemistry naturally sparked speculation that the Catalan giants might attempt to reunite the pair at club level.
However, according to reports from Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona’s sporting department have decided that Laporte does not feature in their plans for the 2026-27 season.
Head coach Hansi Flick feels no urgent need to strengthen his defensive options, with the German tactician confident in the depth he already possesses.
Flick currently has Ronald Araujo, Pau Cubarsi, Andreas Christensen, Eric Garcia, Jules Kounde, and promising academy talent Álvaro Cortés available to him.
The emergence of Gerard Martín as a reliable left-sided option has further reduced the perceived need for another centre-back.
Several obstacles have also complicated any potential deal. Reports suggesting Laporte carries a €15 million release clause in his Athletic contract appear inaccurate.
Barcelona’s information indicates the defender’s contract contains no such clause, meaning any transfer would require direct negotiations with Athletic Bilbao.
Given that Laporte remains under contract until 2028, Athletic hold a strong negotiating position.
The strained relationship between the two clubs following the protracted Nico Williams saga in 2024 and 2025 has also played a decisive role.
Barcelona have little appetite for reopening difficult negotiations with the Basque club.
Ultimately, while Barcelona acknowledge Laporte’s quality and his excellent understanding with Cubarsí, the complexity of the operation and Flick’s satisfaction with his current squad have led the club to walk away from the move.
