Barcelona-linked World Cup winner’s release clause stands at €12.5 million; not a priority

Barcelona-linked World Cup winner’s release clause stands at €12.5 million; not a priority According to journalist David Bernabeu of SPORT , FC Barcelona have established a clear financial and tactical roadmap regarding their links to Spain’s World Cup-winning central defender Aymeric Laporte. While the experienced centre-back has been mooted as a potential defensive reinforcement for the Catalan club in recent days, the sporting department has made it clear that the player does not represent an immediate priority in the current summer transfer window. Financially feasible Laporte’s situation presents a unique market opportunity for Barcelona. The 32-year-old Athletic Club defender possesses a remarkably accessible release clause set at exactly €12.5 million, a figure that represents an incredibly cost-effective piece of business for a proven international. The fact that he excelled at the World Cup, forging a formidable partnership with Barcelona’s own Pau Cubarsi, makes him a very appealing target for the Blaugrana , who remain on the lookout for a left-footed defender. An appealing target, but not a priority. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images) Attack the priority However, the reality of Barcelona’s summer strategy relies on dedicating the bulk of their available financial resources toward rebuilding the first-team attacking line, particularly with the ongoing pursuit of elite forwards. Anthony Gordon has arrived, Karim Adeyemi’s signing is imminent, while the Catalans continue to pursue Julian Alvarez. If Ferran Torres also leaves, which is looking increasingly likely, the La Liga champions might need another striker, therefore making the attacking unit a bitter priority. Hansi Flick’s assessment key The current situation is completely transparent: if Laporte expresses an explicit desire to move to Catalonia, and Barcelona decide they are able to pay the €12.5 million fee upfront, the deal can be rapidly completed. Behind the scenes, the groundwork has already been laid. The player’s entourage has remained in contact with Joan Laporta and Deco, and exploratory talks have already been held with to evaluate the economic feasibility of the contract terms. Flick will have to decide. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images) Despite the tempting price tag, any final decision hinges entirely upon the technical evaluations of head coach Hansi Flick. The German manager is understood to be satisfied with the current central defensive partnership of Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin, who excelled last season. Eric Garcia has proven his worth time and again, while there is an immense trust in Andreas Christensen, which led to his recent two-year renewal. Then there is Ronald Araujo, who is one of the team captains. So, if Flick deems the signing of another defender beyond this, or if one of the current players opt to leave, Barcelona could move for Laporte, who would undoubtedly raise the team’s immediate level and provide invaluable leadership.