Real Madrid offered to sign World Cup star for just €25 million but club not interested
· Yahoo Sports
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Despite signing no less than three new defenders this summer, Real Madrid’s new coach, Jose Mourinho, remains keen on signing yet another new centre-back.
To that end, the club have been closely linked with a move for Aymeric Laporte in the past, but the club never entertained the opportunity.
But now, following his brilliant performances at the World Cup, Laporte has once again appeared on Real Madrid’s radar.
Real Madrid not keen despite the offer
Laporte has been superb in this World Cup. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
According to Defensa Central, Laporte has been offered to Real Madrid through intermediaries, but those at Valdebebas are not particularly enthused by the prospect of signing him.
Jose Mourinho has made it clear that he wants another left-footed defender, but the sporting department is prioritising players with a greater long-term ceiling.
Laporte’s age, the cost of any deal and the level of competition already in the squad are all seen as factors working against a move.
It is a stance that mirrors previous windows. As mentioned earlier, Real Madrid have been offered Laporte before, with the defender reportedly delighted at the idea of joining.
Yet the club never truly entertained the move. His displays at the World Cup could yet prompt a rethink, even if the early signs suggest otherwise.
A formidable World Cup partnership
Will Laporte depart Athletic Club this summer? (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
Laporte’s renewed links are hardly surprising given how impressive he has been at the tournament.
The Athletic Club defender has been a rock at the heart of Spain’s backline, forming a formidable partnership with Barcelona youngster Pau Cubarsi.
That pairing has been the foundation of Spain’s run, with La Roja having conceded just one goal across the entire tournament so far.
The blend of Laporte’s experience and Cubarsi’s precociousness has given Spain a defensive solidity that has underpinned their progress.
For now, Real Madrid’s focus appears to lie elsewhere, with Riccardo Calafiori, Piero Hincapie and Ruben Dias all mentioned as potential targets. Any move is likely to depend on outgoings, with the squad needing trimming first.