At 31, Aymeric Laporte is looking to make a return to the Premier League. Aston Villa, among a number of clubs, is reportedly interested in the defender's services.
There is a lot to be said of a player who went to a league that does not have as much overall quality compared to the EPL and who then wants to return to the highest level of the sport after a two-year absence.
When last in the Premier League, Laporte played for Manchester City and Pep Guardiola. After injuries forced him to miss extended time, the City manager looked to other options at center-back, and Laporte joined the Saudi League side. Al-Nassr.
According to Diario AS, Villa and Arsenal are the EPL teams interested in acquiring Laporte. Other sides throughout Europe have also expressed a desire to add the Spanish international.
Laporte is currently being viewed as a potential boost for a squad that will aim to make a push for silverware. He certainly adds experience and already understands the demands of playing in the EPL. When he was at City, the defender would often do well, making the last-ditch tackles and preventing shots from ever reaching his keeper.
Something to consider for Aston Villa
A concern now will be how Laporte looks after having spent some time away from the best league in the world. Nothing against the Saudi League or any of the other emerging places that players will choose with more frequency. There is a difference in the level and the quality of opponent that is faced throughout each match that has to be acknowledged.
From Laporte's end, it would take some work to get back into the needed fitness level and be ready for the increased pace and physicality again. Considering how many are lined up to acquire the Spain international's services, it is safe to say that most believe he will be able to do so.