Aymeric Laporte is attracting renewed attention across Europe as the summer transfer window heats up. Arsenal and Aston Villa are among the clubs monitoring his situation, with the defender entering the final year of his contract at Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr.
After two seasons in the Saudi Pro League, Laporte could be on the move again. Softfootball gathered that he joined Al Nassr in a £23.6 million deal during a summer wave of high-profile transfers to the Middle East, but his experience there hasn’t fully lived up to expectations.
The 31-year-old had a trophy-laden spell at Manchester City, where he made 180 appearances and won five Premier League titles. Before his time in England, Laporte built his reputation at Athletic Bilbao. The La Liga club now wants him back, but their financial limitations make a return complicated.
Coach Ernesto Valverde is keen, but Laporte would need to take a major pay cut, and Al Nassr is reluctant to accept a loss on their £23.6m investment.
Despite the obstacles, Bilbao is not alone. Marseille, Inter Milan, and Napoli have also been linked to the center-back, whose experience and quality remain in high demand. Laporte’s ties to Bilbao might still give them a sentimental edge, even if other clubs are better positioned financially.
In an earlier update, Softfootball reported that Arsenal have been focused on bolstering their attack and midfield this window, targeting the likes of Viktor Gyokeres, Benjamin Sesko, and Martin Zubimendi.
Villa has already made moves in defense, securing Turkish talent Yasin Ozcan. Yet Unai Emery remains open to adding experience to his squad, and Laporte could be a valuable addition as the club prepares for European competition.
As speculation continues, Laporte’s next move will be watched closely. Whether it’s a Premier League return or a homecoming to La Liga, Europe is ready to welcome him back.
