Aymeric Laporte, the highly skilled center-back from Manchester City, is edging closer to parting ways with the club this summer, as reported by The Athletic.
The Spanish centre-back has found himself out of favour under Pep Guardiola in recent months. Once one of the first names on the team sheet, the likes of John Stones, Ruben Dias, Nathan Ake and Manuel Akanji have all gone ahead of him in the pecking order.
Tottenham are among the clubs linked with a move for Laporte. The Lilywhite’s quest for a left-footed left-side central defender comes as no secret and the Manchester City man fits the bill perfectly.
Laporte has captured the attention of Tottenham, among other potential suitors, including Harry Maguire from Manchester United, Max Kilman from Wolves, and Clement Lenglet. Maguire is not left-footed but he is very comfortable playing as the left-sided centre-back.
Both Tottenham and Aston Villa are prepared to engage in a fierce battle to secure Laporte’s signature. The Frenchman’s arrival at Tottenham has the potential to make a significant impact on the team’s defensive stability.
Known for his composed style, aerial dominance, and exceptional ball-playing skills, Laporte would undoubtedly strengthen Tottenham’s backline, providing much-needed depth and quality.
The fact that he has played so much of his football in the Premier League means Laporte will not need time adapting if he moves to Tottenham. He will also be the first name on the teamsheet’s defence here.
Pairing Laporte with someone like Cristian Romero has the potential to bring out the best in both players. The Spaniard’s composed ball playing abilities coupled with the Argentinian’s robust and aggressive nature could mean that this is a dream combo.
Furthermore, Laporte’s wealth of experience at the highest level would bring invaluable leadership qualities to the squad. Tottenham are looking to instill players with a winning mentality and the Spaniard has just that.
Having clinched multiple domestic titles, including three Premier League trophies, during his five-and-a-half seasons with Manchester City, he possesses a winning mentality that could inspire his new teammates to achieve new heights.
The only stumbling block that Tottenham might face could be the transfer fee that Man City demand. However, Pep Guardiola is known to not keep players against their wishes and he would sanction a sale for the defender.
Being a Spaniard, if one of the top clubs in Spain like Barcelona or Real Madrid come calling, Laporte’s mind could sway. Right now though, Tottenham have a real chance of pulling this off and we must do everything we can to take it.
