Aymeric Laporte has given his approval to join Barcelona this summer, with the Catalan club poised to trigger a relatively low release clause to bring the Spain defender back to La Liga, according to reports in Spain.
The 32-year-old Athletic Bilbao centre-back was one of Spain’s standout performers at the 2026 World Cup, where La Roja claimed their second global title. His commanding displays in defence are understood to have accelerated Barcelona’s push to strengthen their back line with an experienced, ball-playing defender.
Spanish media reported on Tuesday that Barcelona will not be required to enter negotiations with Athletic Bilbao, as Laporte’s current deal contains a release clause of just €15m (£12.7m). The comparatively modest fee for a defender of his pedigree is seen as a significant opportunity for Barca as they look to reinforce their squad within tight financial constraints.
Laporte keen on Camp Nou switch
Catalan broadcaster Esport3 reported that Laporte is already “interested” in making the move to Barcelona ahead of the new season, viewing it as a major step at this stage of his career after his exploits with the national team.
The channel added that people close to the player have been in direct contact with Barcelona president Joan Laporta and have conveyed the defender’s willingness to join the club in the current transfer window.
Those discussions are said to have reassured Barcelona’s hierarchy that personal terms should not be an obstacle if they decide to activate the clause in Laporte’s contract with Athletic Bilbao.
World Cup form sparks transfer push
Laporte’s performances at the 2026 World Cup in North America appear to have been a key factor in Barcelona’s decision to move decisively for him.
The defender featured prominently for Spain throughout the tournament, anchoring a back line that underpinned their run to a historic second world crown. His assured positioning, aerial strength and composure in possession have long been regarded as major assets, and his form on the biggest stage confirmed his status as a top-level central defender.
Barcelona, who have been seeking to add depth and experience to their defensive options, see Laporte as a player capable of slotting immediately into their system and offering leadership at the back.
No talks needed with Athletic Bilbao
Reports in Spain stress that the existence of the €15m buyout clause means Barcelona can bypass potentially lengthy and complex talks with Athletic Bilbao.
Instead, if the Catalan side decide to press ahead, they would simply have to deposit the clause amount, leaving the final decision in the hands of the player – who, according to those close to the situation, has already signalled his approval.
While neither club has yet made an official announcement, the growing volume of reports from respected Spanish outlets suggests that Barcelona are increasingly confident of adding Laporte to their squad before the end of the current transfer window.
