Aymeric Laporte: 'I could represent Spain'

Athletic Bilbao defender Aymeric Laporte has revealed that he will consider switching his international allegiance to Spain if he does not break into the France set-up.

The 20-year-old is widely regarded as one of the best young centre-backs in European football, but has thus far been overlooked by his country of birth.

Laporte has represented France's youth terms, but is also eligible to represent Spain having lived in the country for over five years.

"Some time ago, Ander Iturraspe came to see me to ask if Vicente del Bosque could come and talk to me. Before the World Cup, I'd also had contacts. There are teammates telling me, 'Come on, it's the World Cup!'" Laporte told L'Equipe.

"At the moment, my goal is to be called up by France, but if they don't count on me in the end, I could analyse the situation."

Laporte has been linked with moves to Barcelona and Real Madrid in recent months.