Manchester City have accepted a bid from Al-Nassr for Aymeric Laporte, who is set to join the Saudi Arabian club. The Spanish defender has fallen out of favor at City in recent seasons, making just 12 Premier League appearances last season. The arrival of Josko Gvardiol from RB Leipzig has further complicated his situation, and he is now looking for a new club where he can get regular playing time.
Laporte will join a star-studded Al-Nassr team that also includes Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane. The club is looking to challenge for the AFC Champions League title, and Laporte’s arrival will give them a major boost in their quest for silverware.
The 29-year-old Laporte is a former France youth international, but he switched to Spain in 2021. He has 43 caps for the Spanish national team and will be hoping to be a key player for them at Euro 2024. The defender is known for his composure on the ball and his ability to read the game. He is also a good passer and can contribute to attacks.
Laporte’s move to Al-Nassr is a surprise, but it is understandable given his situation at City. He needs to be playing regularly if he wants to be in contention for a place in the Spanish national team, and Al-Nassr can offer him that. It will be interesting to see how he performs in the Saudi Arabian league, and whether he can help Al-Nassr win the AFC Champions League.
Laporte’s move to Al-Nassr is a sign of the changing landscape of football. The Saudi Arabian league is becoming increasingly attractive to top players, as clubs are willing to pay big salaries. This is likely to lead to more high-profile transfers to the Middle East in the future.
Laporte’s move is also a reminder of the importance of playing time for players who want to be in contention for international honors. He has fallen out of favor at City, but he will be hoping that a move to Al-Nassr will give him the chance to showcase his talent and earn a recall to the Spanish national team.
Laporte is expected to complete his move to Al-Nassr in the coming weeks. He will then be eligible to play for the club in the AFC Champions League, which starts in April 2024. Laporte will be hoping to help Al-Nassr win the tournament and establish themselves as a major force in Asian football.