Manchester City defender Aymeric Laporte has drawn the attention of Spanish giants Barcelona as they look for a long-term replacement for Samuel Umtiti, according to a report by El Gol Digital (via Express).
Pep Guardiola’s side have been without their star central-defender for most of the season and are unlikely to entertain any offers for him but that doesn’t necessarily mean the Catalan club won’t make an attempt to sign the 25-year-old.
Can City keep hold of Aymeric Laporte?
Yes
No
Laporte’s absence has certainly been felt this season and some believe it’s had a significant effect on their title challenge. As his return edges closer, the City faithful cannot wait to see him back in action and in light of the latest reports they’ve issued a hands-off-warning to Quique Setien’s side.
Hands off @FCBarcelona pic.twitter.com/9kwZcvjY2X
— ???? (@Priceless_Silva) January 15, 2020
209m and wed still say no. Bugger off!
— MCFC FanView (@MCFCFanView) January 15, 2020
Hands off!!!!
— RealitySmith (@ChrisBereng7) January 15, 2020
Wouldn’t sell him at any price.
— I’m not really here (@HereReallyNotIm) January 15, 2020
Go look at other targets then wasting your time
— 17De x Bruy (@x17De_Bruy) January 15, 2020
Don’t even think about it ??
— Debs (@DarbyshireDebs) January 15, 2020
What do we think?
Laporte’s imminent return to fitness will come as a huge boost to Pep Guardiola’s side who are looking to go all the way in this season’s UEFA Champions League. Given Manchester City’s financial muscle, it’s unlikely they will be bullied into selling one of their stars.
The Frenchman has won two Premier League titles, an FA Cup and two League cups since arriving from Athletic Bilbao in January 2018 and the clubs faithful will be hoping there are plenty more honours to come.