Barcelona 'set sights on Aymeric Laporte move'

Barcelona have reportedly identified Manchester City centre-back Aymeric Laporte as an ideal target for 2022.

The Spain international struggled to displace John Stones in the starting lineup throughout the 2020-21 campaign but has won his place in Pep Guardiola's XI back this season.

Laporte's existing deal with the Citizens does not expire until the summer of 2025, but a return to La Liga has been mooted for the former Athletic Bilbao man.

According to The Sun, Barcelona - who have already taken Eric Garcia and Ferran Torres off of Man City's hands - are now eyeing a move for Laporte to bolster their defensive ranks.

The report adds that Barca - despite their financial difficulties - expect to receive more money for the transfer kitty in the summer, but City would demand at least the £58m that they shelled out for the 27-year-old back in 2018.

Laporte has started 16 Premier League games in the 2021-22 season so far and has won three top-flight titles, four EFL Cups and the FA Cup during his time at the Etihad.