Fabrizio Romano reveals ‘concrete possibility’ of major Man City exit this summer

Manchester City could be set for a major exit from their defensive line this summer, with a ‘concrete possibility’ of a deal, according to Fabrizio Romano.

That concerns Aymeric Laporte, with the Spain international having struggled for consistent game time as part of Pep Guardiola’s back-four during the ongoing season, largely due to the fine form of summer signing Manuel Akanji.

Ruben Dias’ return from injury has also meant that the Portugal international has formed an impressive partnership with the former Borussia Dortmund defender, while Nathan Ake’s quality at left-back has prevent an opening for Laporte on that side of defence.

A report on Monday went as far as to say that Aymeric Laporte could actively seek a route out of the Etihad Stadium this summer, in search of consistent minutes at one of Europe’s premier clubs, with talks reportedly having taken place with FC Barcelona.

Now, according to the information of Fabrizio Romano, there is a ‘concrete possibility’ of the former Athletic Bilbao man leaving the club in the coming months, with La Liga giants Barcelona among the sides who could show a serious interest should an opportunity arise.

Speaking as part of a wider update on his official YouTube channel, Fabrizio Romano explained, “I wanted to speak about Aymeric Laporte, the centre-back, who could leave Manchester City in the summer. This is a concrete possibility for Laporte to leave Man City.

“It’s true that Barcelona have an interest in the situation, they appreciate the player, but at the moment there is still nothing close or concrete. They are one of many clubs appreciating Laporte, not just Barcelona.”

Romano continued, “I am told there are also other clubs keen on signing Laporte, so let’s see what Man City will decide, but I’m told it’s a possibility for Laporte to leave the club at the end of the season.”

Should Aymeric Laporte leave Manchester City in the coming months, then the expectation is that Etihad officials would actively look for an immediate replacement, and perhaps taking them in the direction of a familiar opponent.

That concerns RB Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol – whom City have already faced on one occasion this season – with the Croatia international attracting interest from the likes of Chelsea and Liverpool.

Gvardiol scored against Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League last-16 first-leg last month, to take a 1-1 scoreline over to the Etihad Stadium when the two sides meet for the second-half of the contest later in March.