Athletic Bilbao remains Laporte's sole focus amid Barça interest

French defender Aymeric Laporte has reaffirmed his commitment to Athletic Bilbao despite confirmed interest from FC Barcelona in signing him. Reports published on July 21, 2026, suggested Barça had explored the possibility, but Laporte insists his future lies solely with the Basque club. With a contract running until 2028 and a release clause far exceeding the €15 million figure circulating, the defender has shut down speculation outside the club’s framework.

What has Barça said about Laporte?

Sources at FC Barcelona denied on Monday any formal contact with Laporte or his representatives. Cadena Cope had reported on July 16 that Barça received an offer for the Spain international, but Camp Nou insiders stressed no further steps were taken. Relations between the two clubs remain strained after two summers of disputes, notably surrounding Nico Williams. Barça sporting director Deco would need to engage directly with Mikel González, Athletic’s sporting director, to explore a deal, but the path looks steep.

Laporte’s release clause: an insurmountable barrier

Athletic set Laporte’s release clause in line with his profile: an international defender with major titles at Manchester City and a guaranteed starter for Spain. When he returned to the club in the 2025-26 season to cover for Yeray Álvarez and Unai Egiluz, the Basque side spared no expense. His signing, one of the highest earners in the squad, proved an instant hit. Txingurri handed him a starting berth from day one, and after locking down a center-back role, he earned a call-up from Luis de la Fuente for the 2026 World Cup, where he starred for Spain.

What’s next with Barça’s interest?

Athletic typically moves fast in these cases, but Laporte’s clause - far above the €15 million floated - acts as an immediate block. The club rarely accepts offers that don’t cover at least 80% of a player’s true value, and Laporte, for his part, has repeatedly stated his priority is the Athletic project. Meanwhile, at Camp Nou, they’re weighing whether to wait or shelve the pursuit. Tensions between the two clubs, however, make any swift rapprochement unlikely.