Athletic Club Make Move for Aymeric Laporte Return

Athletic Club want Aymeric Laporte back from Al Nassr this summer. Laporte is not in Al Nassr’s plans, so the Basque club hopes to bring him back to La Liga.

ATHLETIC CLUB TARGET LAPORTE COMEBACK

Aymeric Laporte left Athletic for Manchester City in 2018, then moved to Al Nassr. Now, he is Athletic Club’s target. The 31-year-old Spanish defender is open to returning to Europe, as this move could boost his chances of making Spain’s 2026 World Cup squad. Athletic talked to Al Nassr about a deal, but high salary and transfer costs are hurdles. Laporte earns about €25 million a year in Saudi Arabia. Moving to Bilbao would mean a big pay cut, but he is willing to consider a lower offer if Al Nassr approves his move as reports indicate.

ATHLETIC CLUB’S PLANS AND THE COMPETITION

Athletic Club finished fifth in La Liga last season and won the Copa del Rey, earning a Champions League spot this season. Strengthening the defense is manager Ernesto Valverde’s priority—especially with Nico Williams likely leaving despite signing a new, long-term deal. European clubs such as Arsenal, Aston Villa, Manchester United, Marseille, Napoli, and Inter Milan are also eyeing Laporte. Al Nassr finished third in the Saudi Pro League last season as confirmed by recent standings, far behind Al Hilal and champions Al Ittihad. Laporte played 37 games and scored four goals for Al Nassr last season.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR LAPORTE AND ATHLETIC CLUB?

If Al Nassr and Laporte reach an agreement, Athletic Club are expected to offer him a three-year contract. Their next match is a crucial start of the season against Sevilla in the opening round of the league. Athletic want to start strong and keep their place among Spain’s best teams since they are playing in multiple competitions this season. Getting Laporte would strengthen their defense for a demanding season at both domestic and European stages.