Aymeric Laporte Hesitates on Athletic Club Return Amid Stalled Negotiations

Aymeric Laporte’s possible return to Athletic Club remains delayed as talks between the player, Al Nassr, and the Spanish club have not produced an agreement. The situation leaves Laporte’s future uncertain, as further discussions will be needed before any transfer is finalized.

WHAT IS THE SITUATION?

Aymeric Laporte has been in talks regarding a move back to Athletic Club, where he previously played over 200 matches and was a key defender. Negotiations with Al Nassr, Laporte’s current team in Saudi Arabia, have proven difficult. The three sides—Laporte, Athletic Club, and Al Nassr—have not agreed on the financial and contract terms for his exit. The deal has attracted attention because Laporte still has two years left on his contract with Al Nassr and is one of the club’s highest earners. While other European clubs have shown interest, Laporte has not accepted any alternative offers so far, keeping his priority on a Bilbao return, but progress is slow as things stand. Reports indicate that Athletic Club wants Aymeric Laporte back from Al Nassr this summer.

ATHLETIC CLUB AND TEAM CONTEXT

Athletic Club enter the new La Liga season with high expectations after finishing 4th last season, securing Champions League football for the first time in nearly a decade. Their defense faces challenges following the departure of Unai Núñez, the suspension of Yeray Álvarez, and an ACL injury to Unai Eguiluz. Coach Ernesto Valverde currently relies on Dani Vivian and Aitor Paredes as his main central defenders, making Laporte’s experience and leadership even more valuable if a deal is struck. Nico Williams, a young star for the squad, recently extended his contract—which was announced on July 4—boosting the club’s future prospects with an increased release clause of €95-100 million. Athletic’s next match is against Sevilla, who finished 17th last season, level on points with the 1st relegated team. A win is crucial for Athletic to stay above their rivals early in the season.

WHAT COULD HAPPEN NEXT?

For the transfer to happen, Al Nassr, Laporte, and Athletic Club must agree on both financial terms and the termination of his current contract. Laporte must also resolve a large remaining salary at Al Nassr, reportedly worth €48 million over two years. If talks progress, Laporte could provide a defensive boost to Athletic ahead of their Champions League campaign and domestic fixture list. For now, negotiations are expected to continue, and Athletic will hope to add Laporte’s experience to a team that aspires to build on a strong league finish and compete at the highest level in Europe this season.