Aymeric Laporte’s future is at stake again. The Spanish international has long considered returning to Europe. Although he accepted Al Nassr’s offer for financial reasons, his stay in Saudi Arabia has not lived up to his expectations. His wish is clear: he wants to return to top-flight football.
San Mamés – or something bigger?
In recent transfer windows, Athletic Bilbao and Real Madrid have been the most mentioned options for the 30-year-old centre-back. Recently, however, a third option has emerged: Olympique de Marseille. According to La Provence, the French club are well placed to sign him this summer.
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In Bilbao, the hope of his return is still alive, although financial and sporting challenges make a deal difficult. Athletic may not be the favorite, but they have not given up.
Laporte seeks a way out – and a new challenge
Relations with Al Nassr are becoming increasingly strained. Laporte is unhappy with his role in the team, and the dynamic with coach Stéfano Pioli has deteriorated. He has even ended up on the bench in recent games. Although his contract runs until 2026, the player wants to break it as early as this summer.
The goal is clear: to find a competitive European club that can give him playing time before the 2026 World Cup with Spain’s national team under Luis de la Fuente.
The chaos in Al Nassr hastens exit
Al Nassr’s poor sporting performance increases the pressure. The team has not achieved its goals: they lost the battle for the Saudi Arabian league title and were eliminated from the semi-finals of the Asian Champions League against the Japanese team Kawasaki Frontale. According to Saudi media outlet Arriyadiyah, Laporte is “tired” and wants to leave the club as soon as possible.
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The club’s management is reportedly planning a major restructuring, and even Cristiano Ronaldo’s future is uncertain. Laporte, who was brought in from Manchester City for €23 million, could be one of the most talked-about transfers of the summer.
