City could aim to try and hit back against their top four rivals, with a £25 million bid for Athletic Bilbao’s Aymeric Laporte reportedly planned with United and Arsenal also interested in the French youth international in the coming window, according to the Metro.
City have looked less than impressive at times in defence this season, and it’s believed that The Blues want to bring in Laporte, a player who has been highly-rated in his time in Spain, in order to try and shore up their defence and improve it going into the new campaign.
The French-born defender reportedly has a £30 million release clause in his contract, and given The Blues are already allegedly willing to go to £25 million, it isn’t hard to imagine Athletic holding out for the full £30m, especially when he’s got such a bright future ahead of him. However, with Laporte aged only 20 (21 in May), he could potentially have a good few years at City if he were to sign.
Whilst a centre-back by trade, Laporte has occasionally been played on the left side of defence during his time at San Mames which could potentially increase his value in City eyes – if he’s able to play two positions, he’s worth more.
However, if the reports of interest in Laporte are true then it could indicate someone is on their way out. Kompany, Mangala and Demichelis have all been criticised for their performances this season, but it’s difficult to see any of them being sold this summer. And with that being the case, it’s difficult to see The Blues bringing another central defender in before someone else leaves. Laporte has played 40 games in all competitions this season, and he isn’t about to throw that away to come and not play the vast majority of games.
