Former Athletic Bilbao sporting director, Rafael Alkorta has advised Real Madrid to prioritize William Saliba over Aymeric Laporte in the next summer transfer window.
Alkorta suggests that while Saliba offers long-term potential, Laporte could be a viable emergency option.
Speaking in an interview, Alkorta cautioned against rushing into a deal, recommending instead that Real Madrid wait for the summer.
“I wouldn’t sign in January, I would wait and consider Aymeric Laporte as an option,” he said.
Alkorta highlighted Saliba’s youthful advantage, predicting the Arsenal defender would provide “10 more years of service.”
However, he emphasized that Laporte’s experience and quality make him a suitable alternative, albeit as a short-term solution.
Alkorta notes: “Maybe you have to spend €80 million (£66.5m) on a guy like Saliba who will give you 10 more years of service.”
“Madrid rarely make mistakes in that regard,” he added, referencing Real Madrid’s historically astute transfer decisions.
