Atletico Madrid 'looking to sign' Man City ace Aymeric Laporte and more transfer rumours

Manchester City defender Aymeric Laporte is reportedly a transfer target for LaLiga giants Atletico Madrid, according to reports in Spain.

As per Nacional, Atletico are keen on the 28-year-old centre-back as manager Diego Simeone looks to recruit a player with 'leadership skills' and one that matches the club's budget. The report also states that Atletico like the fact that he has already played in the Spanish top-flight with Athletic Bilbao and that he speaks the language.

However, it is thought that Pep Guardiola is reluctant to let the Spain international leave the Etihad and will not allow the defender to depart.

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Laporte has made 157 appearances for City since joining the club in 2018, with the centre-back winning 11 trophies with Guardiola's side during his time in England.

Elsewhere, Man City and Chelsea are the frontrunners to sign Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham next summer, according to reports.

As per Bild, Dortmund only have a small chance of holding on to Bellingham beyond this season and a return to England is looking increasingly likely. The report states that City are among the favourites to sign the 19-year-old.

It is also said that the reigning Premier League champions will try and tempt the midfielder to the Etihad by showing the success achieved by Erling Haaland at the club. Bellingham and the Norwegian striker enjoyed a good relationship while at Dortmund, which could play a significant role in a potential deal.

The England international is considered a solid replacement for Ilkay Gundogan, who could depart the club next summer after a successful period with City.

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