Real Madrid could sensationally hijack Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr’s move for Manchester City defender Aymeric Laporte.
That’s according to The Sun, who have claimed that Eder Militao’s long-term injury could mean Real Madrid make a move for the 29-year-old.
Manchester City have accepted a bid for the Spain international, but the move is not yet complete as Laporte needs to agree personal terms, and this could give Real Madrid the perfect opportunity to swoop in.
The Sun have reported that Laporte is yet to agree to the move as he is waiting to see whether Real Madrid will make a move.
Given that a transfer for Kylian Mbappe did not materialise this summer, Real Madrid would be able to afford Laporte. The question remains though, of whether they want him now.
Do Real Madrid need Laporte?
Without Militao, Real Madrid still have Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba and Nacho as centre-back options, and could even throw Ferland Mendy or Aurelien Tchouameni into the middle in an emergency.
However, extra depth could be welcomed, and Laporte would arrive as a player with bags of La Liga and European experience under his belt, having played for Athletic Bilbao prior to his move to City.
Pep Guardiola has described Laporte as “incredible,” and he is one of the best centre-backs in the world when it comes to his ability on the ball.
As a left-footed option, he may not be a direct replacement for Militao, but he can provide cover for Alaba, and if necessary, he can play on the right side of defence next to him.
In what will be another busy season, extra depth could be welcomed, and there will not be many better market opportunities than Laporte available this summer, should Carlo Ancelotti require another option at the back.