Spain defender, Aymeric Laporte, has signed for Spanish La Liga club, Athletic Bilbao, from Saudi Professional League club, Al Nassr, following FIFA’s approval.
Originally, Athletic Bilbao attempted to bring in the 31-year-old on 1 September, however, the move was not successful before the transfer deadline.
The Spanish football federation (RFEF) then requested the world football governing body to make an exception to its rules to allow a transfer to go through but the request was denied. It sought to upend the decision – the request was then granted.
The Lions made known via a statement: “Athletic Club would like to report that Fifa has authorised the RFEF to obtain the International Transfer Certificate (ITC) from the Saudi Arabian football federation.
“Once the ITC is issued, Aymeric Laporte can be registered with Athletic Club.”
In his message to fans on X, Laporte wrote: “Dear @AlNassrFC fans,
“My time at this great club has come to an end. I’m grateful for this experience, full of memories and growth, and proud to have been part of the SPL rise on the world stage. It’s been an honor to share the pitch with so many top players. I wish the club nothing but success for the future.
“Ayme”
Photo: Aymeric Laporte | X/Aymeric Laporte
