Bilbao Demands 80 Million Euros as Aymeric Laporte Price Tag Rockets After World Cup Success
Athletic Bilbao has reportedly set a massive 80 million euro valuation for defender Aymeric Laporte following his standout international performance. Despite his age and previous lower valuation rumors, the Basque club appears unwilling to negotiate with domestic rivals.
Key takeaways
- Athletic Bilbao has officially set a staggering 80 million euro price tag for 32-year-old defender Aymeric Laporte.
- Tensions over the Williams case have led Bilbao to effectively block any potential transfer to FC Barcelona.
- Laporte's contract runs until 2028, giving the Basque club significant leverage in upcoming transfer negotiations.
- The defender's stock rose significantly after he anchored the Spanish defense during their 2026 World Cup victory.
Post-Tournament Valuation Surge
The 2026 World Cup served as a definitive proving ground for veteran defenders, shifting the market dynamics for several established stars. Aymeric Laporte, who anchored the Spanish defense alongside Pau Cubarsi, emerged from the tournament with his reputation fully restored. While observers previously questioned his physical longevity following a quiet club season at Athletic, his role as a primary architect of Spain's trophy win has drastically inflated his market worth.
Strained Relations Block Barcelona Path
Financial and political friction now dictates the player's potential destinations. Although FC Barcelona previously inquired about a transfer, current tensions between the Catalan club and Athletic Bilbao—stemming from the recent Nico Williams saga—have effectively ended those negotiations. Athletic leadership has no desire to facilitate a move to Barcelona, regardless of the player's standing.
Key Facts
- Price Tag: Athletic Bilbao has set the asking price at 80 million euros for the 32-year-old defender.
- Contract Status: Laporte remains under contract in Bilbao until 2028.
- Market Shift: Initial rumors suggesting a 15 million euro release clause have been dismissed by club sources.
- Potential Suitors: Real Madrid and various English Premier League clubs are monitored as potential landing spots.
Background
Laporte's resurgence comes at a time when many analysts believed his peak years were behind him. His partnership with young talent Pau Cubarsi provided the defensive stability necessary for Spain's international coronation. This high-level performance has allowed Athletic to ignore the standard depreciation usually associated with players in their thirties, citing his leadership and tactical importance to the squad.
What Happens Next
The transfer window dynamics will shift once Laporte returns to Basque territory following his post-tournament break. With Barcelona out of the running, the focus shifts to whether Real Madrid or English teams are willing to meet a valuation that many consider extreme for a player of his age. The 80 million euro figure serves as a clear deterrent for domestic rivals and a high entry barrier for international bidders.
Source: French Football Weekly
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