In a recent interview with Football FanCast, journalist Dean Jones urged Aston Villa to move in for Manchester City defender Aymeric Laporte this summer. Jones said,
“I definitely think Laporte could be an even better signing than Tielemans. I mean, he would definitely improve this team immediately and for Emery himself, just the sort of mentality that you have coming into his team just continues to rise.”
Laporte’s Recent Season At The Etihad Stadium
Laporte has been a sporadic presence in Pep Guardiola’s squad this season as he has often found himself behind John Stones, Manuel Akanji and Ruben Dias in Man City’s pecking order. The Spaniard picked up one assist in 24 matches for his current club last season in various competitions.
The 29-year-old has been a rock at the back despite receiving limited playing time this year and has done well to average 0.9 tackles and 2.5 clearances per game in Premier League football. He has also been careful when distributing the ball from inside his half, as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 93.1% in the English top tier (stats via whoscored).
What Will Laporte Bring To Aston Villa?
Laporte is a solid tackler of the ball and can use his strong frame to make some last-gasp blocks for his team. He usually clears the danger when the opposition are on the offensive and can use his strong 1.88m frame to win his fair share of aerial duels.
The Spanish sensation is a good passer of the ball as well and would be an excellent acquisition for the Villans this summer. He is primarily a central defender but can also fill in as a left-back if asked to do so by his manager.
Laporte will bring more bite and steel to Aston Villa boss Unai Emery’s defence. He could even help the West Midlands club compete for a top-half finish in the Premier League next season.
With all things considered, Laporte would be a great option for Emery to consider during this summer transfer window. He already knows the Premier League well by now and would add a winning mindset to Aston Villa‘s dressing room next season.
