Why Aymeric Laporte chose to stay at Bilbao instead of Barça
The Athletic Club defender decided not to leave Bilbao, despite Barcelona wanting to sign him
Athletic Club defender Aymeric Laporte explained to RMC why he rejected the chance to join FC Barcelona.
The 22 year old was wanted by the Blaugrana, who eventually settled for Samuel Umtiti, his countryman. Laporta renewed his contract with the Bilbao side and increased his buy-out clause.
"Is the door shut for a big club? It has nothing to do with it. I had the chance to go to one of the clubs that wanted me but for personal reasons and to give thanks to the club that helped me reach the world of football.
"It is only to give thanks for everything they have done for me. In me they saw potential that today benefits everyone. I'm fine at Athletic."
