Manchester City set to sanction exit of Aymeric Laporte amid Barcelona & Athletic Bilbao interest | OneFootball

Manchester City have reportedly decided to sell Aymeric Laporte this summer after he has struggled for regular game time this season.

After missing the first two months of the season to recover from knee surgery, Laporte has fallen out of favour at the Etihad Stadium, making only seven starts in his 20 Premier League appearances.

Manuel Akanji, who was signed from Borussia Dortmund last summer, has grown into a pivotal player for Pep Guardiola, producing consistent performances.

According to the Daily Mail, the Spanish centre-back is keen to leave City to revive his career, and the club do not intend to stay in his way.

Laporte has been with City since 2018, winning four Premier League titles, one FA Cup and three League Cup titles.

The 29-year-old was also part of the Spanish national team that exited the World Cup 2022 in the round of 16 against Morocco.

Barcelona have been long-time admirers of Laporte and could explore a move this summer.

The Catalans need to add more depth to their defence due to the recurring injury problems this season.

However, the financial crisis may be a stumbling block for Barca, who have been forced to generate funds from massive sales this summer.

Free transfers and cut-price deals look to be the reasonable strategy for the Catalan giants at the moment, and they also have reportedly reached a verbal agreement over the Bosman transfer of Athletic Bilbao defender Inigo Martinez.

Athletic Club have lined up Laporte as a possible replacement for Martinez.