Laporte Hints at Barcelona with Like on Cancelo and Rodri Post

Aymeric Laporte, the Athletic Bilbao defender, has reignited speculation about a potential move to Barcelona after liking a post from Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano on Instagram regarding the arrivals of João Cancelo and Rodri at the Catalan club.

Barcelona is in an active period after securing the signings of João Cancelo and Rodri, two deals that have pushed the club to accelerate its preparations for the new season. The players arrived in Barcelona on Monday to complete the final procedures before officially joining the team.

Laporte interacted with Romano's post, which included images of Cancelo and Rodri's movements towards Barcelona. Although this mention does not confirm the existence of negotiations, it has reignited speculation regarding the Spanish defender's future and the possibility of his transfer to the Catalan club.

Barcelona's interest in Aymeric Laporte dates back to earlier times, following the defender's impressive showing with the Spanish national team during the World Cup. The 32-year-old formed a solid defensive partnership with Pau Torres, playing a crucial role in the team's title victory.

However, the deal faces a hurdle due to Athletic Bilbao's stance, which denied the existence of a release clause of around €15 million, and confirmed its unwillingness to facilitate Laporte's departure, who is contracted with the club until June 2028.

Laporte's gesture carries a personal touch as he previously played with Joao Cancelo at Manchester City, and he has also shared the pitch with Rodri at both the English club and the Spanish national team. However, the 'like' does not necessarily indicate that a transfer to Barcelona is imminent; it merely adds a new chapter to the club's ongoing interest in the Spanish defender.