Barca accelerates pursuit of Spanish national team star who shone at the 2026 World Cup

According to sources, Barcelona is set to accelerate its efforts to recruit defender Aymeric Laporte, following the Spaniard's standout performances at the 2026 World Cup.

Wearing the La Roja jersey, Laporte formed a solid and reliable central defensive partnership with young talent Pau Cubarsi, playing a key role in the team's tournament journey.

Per the newspaper Sport, the Camp Nou side will soon contact Laporte's representatives to learn about the player's intentions and his willingness to return to La Liga during the summer transfer window.

Sources further indicate that during sporting director Deco's stay in the United States to follow the 2026 World Cup, initial exchanges took place between the two parties. After the tournament ends, Barcelona is expected to intensify negotiations to assess the feasibility of the deal.

The Catalan club's leadership holds Laporte's World Cup performances in high regard. His vast experience and reportedly accessible transfer fee make the 32-year-old center-back an attractive target. Sources indicate that Laporte's release clause currently stands at under 15 million euros.

Barcelona believes Laporte can have a similar impact to Inigo Martinez. The veteran center-back quickly integrated and played a crucial role in helping the team secure a La Liga and Copa del Rey double in the 2024-2025 season.

However, the deal will not be straightforward. Athletic Club's sporting director, Mikel González, recently commented on the rumors linking Barcelona to Laporte, asserting that the defender remains a key part of the club's plans and emphasizing that he does not expect the Spanish center-back to leave in this summer's transfer window.