LAPORTE'S LA LIGA COMEBACK? ATHLETIC CLUB IN TALKS FOR FORMER STAR AMID MAN UTD'S SAUDI INTERVENTION
A summer of defensive changes could be underway for Aymeric Laporte. Athletic Club have quietly rekindled interest in their former youth-product, while Manchester United are said to have lodged an enquiry over his contract at Al‑Nassr.
🔙 Basque Reunion on the Cards
With Athletic preparing for a return to the Champions League next season, strengthening the centre-back position has become a priority. Their recruitment team has reached out to Laporte’s camp, exploring whether he’d consider a homecoming. Sources suggest they see him as a ready-made upgrade—a fourth central defender capable of complementing established figures like Yeray Álvarez. Budgeted at around €15–20 million plus his high wages, the move is seen as potentially transformative—both on and off the pitch.
🇸🇦 Available & Ambitious
Laporte, aged 31, still has one more year on his Al‑Nassr deal—earning a reported €24–25 million annually—but hasn’t featured much recently. He and the club are in agreement over a parting, with both sides reportedly working toward contract termination. His lack of playing time under coach Stefano Pioli and strained relations behind the scenes have only increased the likelihood of a Europe-bound exit.
🏟️ United’s Stealth Offer
Meanwhile, whispers in England suggest Manchester United have submitted a contract offer to Laporte. With their captain Harry Maguire facing uncertainty and Varane aging, United believe Laporte could be an immediate solution. He ticks multiple boxes: left-footed, elite passing range, international pedigree. But Al‑Nassr must cut ties first before any transfer can proceed.
🌍 Other Interested Clubs
Laporte’s credentials haven’t gone unnoticed elsewhere in Europe—clubs like Olympique de Marseille and Galatasaray are said to be monitoring his situation. A pattern is emerging of high-profile teams preparing for a bargain acquisition once he's officially released by his Saudi side.
🔮 What’s Likely to Happen This Summer
Contract termination at Al‑Nassr seems imminent, freeing Laporte to return to Europe.
Athletic Club are leading the race for a Basque return, banking on his familiarity and immediate impact.
Manchester United remain in the shadows with an offer pending Al‑Nassr’s formal release.
Other European suitors complicate the picture, but Athletic and United currently seem to have the clearer pathways.
📌 Bottom Line
Aymeric Laporte is officially on the move—with Al‑Nassr ready to facilitate a departure and multiple European clubs lining up. Athletic Club’s blend of sporting ambition and emotional pull give them a strong advantage. Yet Manchester United’s quiet interest means this saga could tip in either direction once his release clears the way.
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