Among the names to have been floated is Aymeric Laporte, fresh off a commanding World Cup campaign with Spain. Interestingly, the concrete interest so far has come from Barcelona rather than Real Madrid, with Deco having enquired directly. Athletic's response to Barcelona was emphatic, and there is little reason to think Real Madrid would receive a different answer. Laporte's age-profile does not suit Real Madrid. Not to mention, Real Madrid have already turned down this exact opportunity once earlier this summer, largely due to his age profile.