Man City in talks to sign Aymeric Laporte from Athletic Bilbao

Aymeric Laporte is one of the most highly-regarded young centre-backs in Europe

Manchester City are in talks to sign Athletic Bilbao defender Aymeric Laporte, Sky Sports News understands.

According to Sky in Italy, Pep Guardiola and City are considering paying the £60m needed to trigger the France international's release clause.

City are in the market for a new centre-back in the January window and it is understood negotiations between the two clubs are continuing on Tuesday afternoon.

Here's a look at Athletic Bilbao defender Aymeric Laporte, who has been linked with a move to Manchester City Here's a look at Athletic Bilbao defender Aymeric Laporte, who has been linked with a move to Manchester City

The 23-year old turned down a move to City when Guardiola first arrived at the club in 2016, and he has reportedly been of interest to a number of top clubs across Europe including Barcelona, Manchester United and Chelsea.

He has emerged as a top target for City, who have also shown interest in West Brom's Jonny Evans, Real Sociedad's Inigo Martinez and Leicester defender Harry Maguire.

Sky Sports News reported on Monday that Evans, who is also a target for Arsenal, has a release clause of just £3m should the Baggies be relegated.

City have funds in reserve after missing out on Alexis Sanchez, whom they were ready to pay £20m for, to Manchester United this month.