Report: Manchester City close to signing Athletic Bilbao defender Aymeric Laporte

Manchester City are close to sealing a deal for Athletic Bilbao defender Aymeric Laporte, according to reports.

The French centre-back's current five-year contract expires in the summer of 2019 but a £39m buyout clause is inserted and the player is believed to be heavily leaning towards a change of club.

According to the Gazzetta dello Sport, the 22-year-old is one of Man City manager Pep Guardiola's key targets as he seeks to bolster his new side ahead of his first season in English football.

Laporte suffered a broken leg and dislocated ankle during a France Under-21 game in March but is understood to be making a good recovery.