Laporte reveals why Barcelona transfer failed and praises ‘special’ Cubarsi partnership

Aymeric Laporte has confirmed Barcelona were interested in signing him during the summer transfer window, but says Athletic Club did not want to let him leave.

The Spain international was among the options considered by Barcelona sporting director Deco as the club searched for a left-footed central defender for manager Hansi Flick. However, no deal was completed before the window closed.

Laporte had only returned to Athletic Club in September 2025 after his spell in Saudi Arabia and remains under contract until June 2028. The Basque club were unwilling to part with one of their key defenders, while their valuation of the 32-year-old was understood to be about 80m euros.

That figure was beyond Barcelona’s plans for a player of Laporte’s age, making a move difficult to complete despite his experience, ability to build from the back and familiarity with La Liga.

Laporte discussed the interest in an interview with La Vanguardia several months after the transfer window closed. Asked whether Barcelona had made an approach, he said: “Maybe they were interested, but Athletic Club did not want to let me leave, so it was not possible.”

The defender also refused to rule out a future move to Barcelona, although he acknowledged that time could work against him.

“It depends on the future; no-one knows what might happen. It is true that time is passing and it is becoming more difficult,” he said.

Laporte turned 32 in May and recognises that the opportunities to make another major move in his career are becoming increasingly limited.

Laporte and Cubarsi forged strong bond

The interview also covered his relationship with Pau Cubarsi, with whom he formed one of the standout defensive partnerships at the World Cup as Spain became world champions.

Laporte said their connection extended beyond the pitch and revealed that the Barcelona defender had looked up to him before making his first-team debut.

“He told me that he followed me and looked up to me when he was young, even before he had played his first match for Barcelona,” Laporte said.

“From the beginning, a special relationship developed between us off the pitch. I helped him with my experience, while he gives me energy and qualities that are difficult to find in a player so young. He does not make mistakes, which is unusual for someone his age.”

Laporte also spoke about Rodri, his former team-mate at Manchester City and with Spain. The defender said the midfielder was central to controlling matches and setting the tempo.

“He is a pivotal player in midfield, the one who takes control and guides the rhythm of the game. I won everything alongside him, and I cannot say anything bad about him,” he said.

Laporte added that Rodri’s move to Barcelona had not surprised him.

“He was born here, and the English league is extremely physical. He came here to play the football we love, especially the football that reflects his identity linked to Barcelona. It is the best option for him.”