BREAKING; ASTON Villa have reportedly made inverge to land a sensational move to sign CLINICAL STAR player from Al-Nassr this summer, according to Spanish outlet AS. The former Manchester City defender, currently earning a staggering £409,000 per week in Saudi Arabia, has emerged as a surprise target in what could be one of the summer’s biggest transfer stories.
Aston Villa Eye Shock Move for Al-Nassr’s Aymeric Laporte Amid Defensive Overhaul
Aston Villa have reportedly opened talks over a surprise summer move for Aymeric Laporte, with manager Unai Emery targeting the experienced defender to reinforce his squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, according to Spanish outlet AS.
Following a disappointing end to the 2024/25 season — where Villa narrowly missed out on Champions League qualification by finishing sixth in the Premier League and exited the Champions League at the quarter-final stage to eventual winners Paris Saint-Germain — Emery is eager to bolster his back line.
Laporte on Villa’s Radar as Defensive Reshuffle Continues
Villa reshaped their defensive setup last season, allowing Diego Carlos to depart for Fenerbahce and bringing in Chelsea’s Axel Disasi on a temporary deal.
However, with Disasi returning to Stamford Bridge, the club is now exploring long-term options, with Laporte emerging as a prime candidate.
The 31-year-old centre-back, formerly of Manchester City, has spent the past two seasons in Saudi Arabia with Al-Nassr, playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo.
With only one year remaining on his lucrative contract — worth a reported £409,000 per week — Villa are hoping to lure him back to Europe.
Return to Europe on the Cards?
While Laporte is reportedly open to returning to a European league, it remains to be seen whether he’s willing to accept a significant pay cut to facilitate the move.
His experience could prove invaluable to a Villa side aiming to reestablish themselves among Europe’s elite.
Currently, Emery has Ezri Konsa, Pau Torres, and Tyrone Mings — who recently signed a new deal — in his centre-back rotation.
But Laporte would bring a wealth of experience, having won five Premier League titles and a Champions League during his time with Manchester City.
He was also part of the Spain squad that won both Euro 2024 and the 2023 UEFA Nations League.
One to Watch This Summer
Aston Villa are expected to be active in the transfer market as they seek to build a squad capable of pushing deeper into European competitions next season.
With Laporte’s availability and proven pedigree, this potential signing is certainly one to watch as the summer window unfolds.
