Real Madrid make surprise enquiry for Barcelona target as Mourinho pushes for another defender

Real Madrid have reportedly made enquiries about Aymeric Laporte as Jose Mourinho continues to push for another defensive signing before the new season starts.

According to Gerard Romero, as relayed by Defensa Central, the Spanish international is a genuine option for Real Madrid, despite Los Blancos already strengthening their defence with the free signing of Ibrahima Konate.

Notably, Barcelona are also said to be monitoring Laporte, setting up the possibility of another transfer battle between the two Spanish giants. 

However, Romero claims Real Madrid have sounded out the player’s situation as Mourinho looks for further reinforcements at centre-back.

Mourinho is not fully satisfied with Real Madrid’s current defensive options and has asked the club to bring in another centre-back.

Konate’s arrival from Liverpool was an important addition, but the Portuguese manager is believed to want further depth and experience in the position. 

Real Madrid have enquired about Aymeric Laporte. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

The situation has become more significant after Mourinho decided that Raul Asencio does not feature in his plans.

On that note, several names have been discussed as potential targets.

Alessandro Bastoni was one of the defenders Mourinho personally suggested, but Laporte has now emerged as another player being watched by Real Madrid.

Gerard Romero revealed that both Barcelona and Real Madrid have shown interest in the Spanish defender.

“Laporte is an option for both Barça and Madrid. They’re not keen to admit it, but Madrid have also sounded out Laporte because they’re looking for more defenders,” Romero commented.

The journalist did not provide further details regarding Real Madrid’s contact or how advanced the situation may be. He simply added, “I can’t say any more” when discussing the player.

Barcelona are also interested in the Spanish World Cup winner. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

For now, there is no indication that negotiations have progressed beyond an initial enquiry, but Laporte is clearly a name on the radar as Real Madrid continue to assess their defensive options.

It must be remembered that Laporte, 32, returned to La Liga last summer after previous spells with Manchester City and Al-Nassr. 

In the last year, Laporte also became a key player for the Spanish national team, having played an important role during Spain’s Euro 2024 success before continuing his strong form at the World Cup.

Understandably, at 32, Laporte would not necessarily be viewed as a long-term solution, but that may not be what Real Madrid need. 

With Konate already added and several established defenders in the squad, an experienced player could be more valuable than another young prospect.