Aymeric Laporte Transfer Rumours: Latest News, Speculation on Athletic Bilbao CB

Manchester City have reportedly triggered the £39 million buyout clause of Athletic Bilbao star Aymeric Laporte, although the player seemed to suggest no personal terms have been agreed.

Continue for updates.

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Laporte Comments on Man City Rumours

Tuesday, May 3

"Given the unfounded and inaccurate news appearing in the media today, my message to the fans of Athletic is very clear and simple," the centre-back tweeted, per James Walker-Roberts of Sky Sports.

"In my mind I have only the desire to be useful to the club and my team-mates, to achieve the best goals this season and also recover well from my injury," Laporte explained. "Athletic will always be the first to know about anything that might happen in the future. My loyalty and deep respect for this club is full."

Spanish daily Marca (h/t the Sun's Matt Heath-Smith) previously reported on March 24 the player had agreed to a five-year contract.

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Report: Man City to Meet Laporte Asking Price

Monday, May 2

"The club’s sporting director Txiki Begiristain was pictured in Bilbao last month, with Basque newspaper EITB reporting that City have told Athletic officials that they are willing to meet his release clause," relayed the Guardian.

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European Giants Keen on Laporte

The 21-year-old has long been regarded as one of the top young defenders in the world, and he made his La Liga debut in 2012. He quickly became a regular starter and the leader of the Basques' defence, developing into an elite prospect along the way.

Initially seen as a throwback-type defender who relied mainly on his physicality, Laporte has added patience and superb passing range to his game. He was expected to compete for a spot in France's UEFA Euro 2016 squad this summer, but his season ended after he suffered a broken leg, per the Guardian.

Per the Mirror's John Cross, Laporte has frequently been linked with moves to rivals Manchester United and Barcelona, but incoming City manager Pep Guardiola is thought to be a big fan of the youngster, and recent speculation has mainly revolved around the Citizens.

Spanish buyout clauses differ from standard release clauses, and if Laporte's full clause is triggered, City will have to pay an additional tax to the Spanish government. Per ESPN FC's Graham Hunter, the added tax can be anywhere between 21 and 45 percent.