Athletic Club have been hoping to finally secure the return of Aymeric Laporte, but for now, a deal to re-sign him has been put on hold.
During the first half of August, Laporte agreed personal terms ahead of a return to San Mames, rejecting several clubs in the process. However, the process has delayed by the defender being unable to reach an agreement to terminate his Al-Nassr contract, despite talks having been ongoing for many weeks.
MÚNICH (ALEMANIA), 09/07/2024.- El defensa de la selección española Aymeric Laporte, durante el partido de semifinales de la Eurocopa de fútbol que España y Francia disputan este martes en Múnich. EFE/Alberto Estévez
As per Diario AS, FIFA have confirmed that the documents sent from Al Nassr to their computer transfer system did not arrive on time, which means that Laporte will not be able to play for Athletic until the winter transfer window opens in January, as he is not allowed to be registered as their player.
The Spanish Football Federation have abided by FIFA’s decision, which means that Athletic’s only option to have Laporte available for the first half of the season is if they launch an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
For now, Athletic are analysing the case, after which they will make their decision. But there will be a lot of frustration in the club’s offices in Bilbao, given that the delay was largely out of their control.