Aymeric Laporte Returns to Athletic Club in Deadline Day Move

Aymeric Laporte is heading back to Athletic Club after a deal was reached with Al Nassr. The defender turned down other offers to return to Bilbao, making a much-anticipated homecoming, as Athletic Club has actively pursued his return this summer.

HOW THE MOVE UNFOLDED

Laporte is flying to Bilbao for a medical and to sign a three-year contract. Athletic Club lacked centre backs, with only Dani Vivian and Aitor Paredes available. Yeray Alvarez is suspended due to a failed doping test, and Unai Eguiluz is still recovering from an ACL injury.

Coach Ernesto Valverde made Laporte a priority, especially with the urgent need for defensive reinforcements. The agreement came after Al Nassr delayed talks until after their Saudi Super Cup final. Laporte hadn’t played for them since April, and both agreed it was time for him to leave.

THE SIGNIFICANCE FOR ATHLETIC AND LAPORTE

This transfer is a return to Laporte’s boyhood club, where he played from 2012 to 2018 before moving to Manchester City. His last move was to Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, but he had limited playing time as the club focused on other foreign players. Reports indicate he is open to returning to Europe after that experience following the season of limited opportunities.

Athletic Club’s current La Liga campaign started well, but a lack of squad depth in central defence was concerning. Laporte’s experience in the Premier League, Saudi Pro League, and Euros makes him an immediate quality and leadership upgrade at the back.

LOOKING AHEAD: FIXTURES AND IMPLICATIONS

Laporte might be available for Athletic’s next La Liga match against Alaves in two weeks after the international break. The team is top of the table, level on points with Real Madrid and two ahead of Villarreal and Barcelona.

Alaves are 10th, with four points from three matches. Laporte’s quick integration is important with a tight schedule and upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers for Spain. Good performances at Athletic could help him regain a regular place in the national team, as he was left out of the last two squads.