Both Spanish giants reportedly enquired about the right-back during the summer. Barcelona president Joan Laporta has even described him as one of his favourite players.
Porro, though, seems quite comfortable with where he is. He’s happy at Tottenham, has a contract to honour and isn’t getting carried away by transfer rumours.
Barcelona president’s praise catches Porro by surprise
In an interview with Spanish newspaper Sport, the defender was told about Laporta’s admiration for him. His initial reaction was a surprised “Really?!”
“I hadn’t seen that. Well, it’s flattering coming from him,” Porro said.
“It’s nice that the president of another club, one that isn’t mine, likes me. It probably means I’m doing things well.”
The conversation then turned to Barcelona and Real Madrid’s interest. Porro was happy to acknowledge the rumours, but quickly brought things back to Tottenham.
“I have a contract with my club and I’m very happy there. I also have to respect my club. Obviously, that’s football, things come out, rumours come out. But I’m focused on the national team now, and then we’ll see.”
That final remark leaves some room for interpretation, although he certainly isn’t suggesting he’s looking for an exit.
Asked whether Barcelona’s reported approach was flattering, he agreed, although he was careful with his wording.
“Yes, of course it’s flattering. When the best clubs in the world are interested in you, or at least that’s what you’re telling me, it’s always good. It probably means you’re doing your job well, so you just have to keep going in the same direction.”
There is a distinction worth making here. In another interview, Porro explained that clubs had asked about his situation without making a concrete approach. He said nobody had contacted him directly with a proposal.
His latest comments follow a similar line. He appreciates the recognition, but isn’t treating every enquiry as an actual transfer opportunity.
Lamine Yamal connection gives Barcelona another talking point
The interview also covered Porro’s relationship with Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal, with whom he has developed a partnership on Spain’s right flank. Porro couldn’t have been much more complimentary.
“He’s a wonderful lad, as I’ve always said. He helps you and contributes to the team. For me, it’s a privilege to play with him because, in my opinion, he’s the best.”
Their understanding goes beyond attacking combinations, too. Porro explained that Yamal is prepared to help defensively when his full-back finds himself in trouble.
“Of course. He’s a player who helps you and supports you when he knows you’re struggling.”
“Obviously, his strength is attacking. I’ve already told him he can attack, because I’ll be there to help him.”
The two already know how to work together, and Porro clearly enjoys playing alongside the youngster.
For Tottenham, though, his attitude should be welcome. Pedro hasn’t dismissed the possibility of playing in Spain one day. He has, however, made a point of saying he’s happy at Spurs and respects his commitment to them.
His deal runs until 2031, following the renewal he signed earlier this year. That’s a decent enough message for the London club amid all the attention from back home.
