Athletic Club have made a decisive move to re-sign their former star Aymeric Laporte from Al-Nassr but European clubs intend to compete.

According to Estadio Deportivo, Athletic have initiated contact with Laporte and his current club, Al-Nassr, over a potential return to San Mames. The Spanish international, who left the Spanish club for Manchester City in 2018, is now a target for the Basque side as they look to bolster their defence ahead of the 2025-26 campaign. Laporte remains under contract with Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr until 2026. However, a transfer could mean a significant reduction in his salary and require a fee for the deal.

The Spanish club are prioritising the signing of a central defender, with manager Ernesto Valverde pushing for reinforcements. While Unai Nunez was initially preferred due to cost, the club reportedly turned their attention to Laporte. Participation in the next season's Champions League is viewed as a key bargaining tool to lure the 31-year-old back to La Liga. However, the situation is made complicated by financial constraints and major competition from other clubs across Europe, including Marseille and Manchester United.

Al-Nassr signed Laporte from City in 2023 for €27 million (£23m/$29m). Any transfer out of Saudi Arabia is expected to require a similar valuation for the Euro 2024 winner with Spain. On the other hand, Al-Nassr are unwilling to accept a financial loss.

Athletic Club are preparing a formal offer and must engage with Al-Nassr sporting director Fernando Hierro to negotiate terms. Laporte will also need to accept a pay cut to facilitate the move. Meanwhile the Red Devils have reportedly submitted an offer as they look to strengthen their back line; Marseille remain active in the race. The final decision will rest on financial terms and Laporte's personal desire to return to Spain or seek a new challenge elsewhere in Europe.