Barcelona's pursuit of World Cup-winning defender Aymeric Laporte broke down after Athletic Club demanded a massive transfer fee. The Catalan giants hoped to secure the 32-year-old for under €15 million to solve their defensive problems. However, strained relations between the two Spanish clubs ultimately scuppered the late summer deal.
Olympique de Marseille and Athletic Club are the only two clubs across Europe's top five leagues that have failed to make a single signing this summer. While Bilbao's strict recruitment policy explains their quiet window, Marseille's inactivity stems from severe financial constraints.
Athletic Bilbao manager Edin Terzic reserved special praise for young defender Johaneko Louis-Jean following a demanding fixture against Barcelona. The German coach was thoroughly impressed by how the youngster handled the hostile atmosphere at Camp Nou during his stellar debut.
FK Bokelj
