Transfer fee, interested clubs, final words: Aymeric Laporte joins Al Nassr from Manchester City

Aymeric Laporte has completed his exit from Manchester City to join Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr, both clubs have confirmed on Thursday afternoon.

The Spain international defender brings an end to his five-year stay at the Etihad Stadium, having first arrived at the club from La Liga outfit Athletic Bilbao during the January transfer window of 2018.

Proving to be instrumental to the success achieved under Pep Guardiola over the last four years, his sixth and final season proved to be more challenging having fallen out of favour under the Catalan boss.

The arrival of Manuel Akanji and sensational form of the Swiss international, accompanied by Nathan Ake’s transition into a commendable option at left-back, meant Aymeric Laporte was significantly limited in game-time.

This summer has also seen Josko Gvardiol arrive at the club from RB Leipzig for a significant financial outlay, sparking the end of Laporte’s hopes at City and forcing the player into seeking a fresh challenge outside of Europe.

As Aymeric Laporte brings an end to his illustrious career in the north-west of England, here is everything you need to know about the 29-year-old’s move to Saudi Arabia.

What are the terms of Aymeric Laporte’s move to Al Nassr?

Aymeric Laporte has joined Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr on a three-year deal, with Manchester City receiving £23.5 million for the transfer.

How much will Aymeric Laporte be earning in Saudi Arabia?

The Spain international received a contract offer worth around £21 million per year, equating to over £400,000 per week. The deal is tax-free.

Who else was interested in Aymeric Laporte?

Arsenal are understood to have considered a move for the now-former Manchester City defender, while Aston Villa also showed some interest in the player during the summer. Both clubs opted for other targets.

Laporte’s former club in La Liga, Athletic Bilbao are understood to have been hopeful of securing a return for their former player however the financials offered by the team were less than what Manchester City were paying the player.

Rumours elsewhere also linked Juventus and Crystal Palace with a level of interest in Laporte.

How has Aymeric Laporte reacted to his Manchester City exit?

Aymeric Laporte told ManCity.com, “I am proud to have represented Manchester City over the last six seasons.  When I first joined, I was excited about the prospect of winning trophies. However, I could not have imagined the success we would go on to achieve together. 

“I would like to thank the coaches, my team-mates and of course the brilliant City fans for all of their support throughout my time in Manchester. I will always be a City fan and I look forward to seeing you all again.”

How has Txiki Begiristain reacted to the completed transfer?

Txiki Begiristain told ManCity.com, “Aymeric has been an excellent player for Manchester City during a great time for the Club.  He fit into the team seamlessly upon arrival in 2018 and played a key role in many of our successes over the years that have followed. 

“The form of the other defenders in the squad made it hard for him to find sufficient game time in 2022/23 and we respect his decision to seek a move elsewhere.  I look forward to following his career from afar.”

Everyone at City Xtra would like to thank Aymeric Laporte for all his achievements at Manchester City, and wish him all the very best in his future ventures!