Aymeric Laporte has dropped a bombshell on Manchester City fans by revealing his desire to join Barcelona. The French defender, who has been a key part of Pep Guardiola’s side since joining from Athletic Bilbao in 2018, has been linked with a move to the Catalan giants for some time.
The 26-year-old has been a mainstay in the City defence since his arrival, making over 100 appearances for the club and helping them to two Premier League titles, two League Cups and an FA Cup. However, his future at the Etihad Stadium has been thrown into doubt after he admitted he would like to join Barcelona.
Speaking to Spanish radio station Cadena Ser, Laporte said: “I would like to play for Barcelona one day. It’s a dream of mine and I’m sure it’s a dream of many players. I’m very happy at Manchester City but I would like to play for Barcelona.”
The news has come as a shock to City fans, who had been hoping Laporte would remain at the club for many years to come. However, the move could be complicated by the fact that Laporte could be banned from playing in England if he were to join Barcelona.
The defender is currently serving a four-match ban for a red card he received in City’s Champions League quarter-final against Lyon last season. If he were to join Barcelona, he would be unable to play in England until the ban had been served.
It remains to be seen whether Barcelona will make a move for Laporte, but the news has certainly sent shockwaves through the City fanbase. The French defender has been a key part of Guardiola’s side since his arrival and his departure would be a huge blow to the club.
Only time will tell if Laporte will make the move to Barcelona, but it is certainly a story to keep an eye on in the coming weeks.