Manchester City defender Aymeric Laporte could join Chelsea in the upcoming summer transfer window, according to a tweet from journalist Rudy Galetti.
While the Blues have yet to make an official approach for Laporte, he is understood to be on their shopping list. Chelsea are currently undergoing a transitional period, following a disastrous campaign in the 2022/23 Premier League season, which saw them finish 12th.
In Galetti’s tweet, he wrote: “Chelsea still have Aymeric Laporte in their list, as reported in March. Together with the [English] club, now Bayern shown interest in the [Spanish] centre-back, whose contract with Manchester City expires in 2025. Evolving situation.”
Who else, besides Chelsea, are interested in a move for Manchester City’s Aymeric Laporte?
Chelsea are not the only club who are interested in a move for Laporte. According to Football Espana, Atletico Bilbao are also thought to be keen on a move to the player.
However, this interest stems from a report that was published back in April – it is unclear if the Basque-based club are still interested in the 29-year-old.
Additionally, as mentioned by Galetti, Bayern Munich are also thought to be interested in a move to Laporte – as such, his time with the Citizens could be limited.
Laporte himself may prefer a move to Bayern Munich. While Chelsea and Bilbao’s interest seems apparent and legitimate, Bayern can offer them something the other two cannot – Champions League football. Laporte isn’t getting any younger – this could prove to be a defining factor in his next destination.
Will Manchester City miss Aymeric Laporte?
Aymeric Laporte has been one of the leading defenders in the Premier League ever since he joined the Sky Blues – to suggest they will not miss him is simply incorrect.
Nevertheless, this season, he has become City’s fourth-choice centre-back, behind Nathan Ake, Ruben Dias and England superstar John Stones.
As such, for all his talents, the Citizens can afford to lose him – especially if a large transfer fee is involved for the player. Nevertheless, should he choose to depart the club, he will need replacing before the summer transfer window slams shut on September 1, 2023.
