Athletic Bilbao have confirmed that an agreement has been reached “in principle” with Atletico Madrid for the signing of midfielder Raul Garcia.
The 29-year-old, who is of Basque origin, has long been a target of Los Leones, and they have finally got their man, a medical and personal terms pending.
A statement on Athletic's official website reads: “Atletico Madrid and Athletic Club have reached an agreement in principle for the transfer of Raul Garcia.
“The definitive agreement between the clubs and player is subject to him passing the required medical examination and then agreeing personal terms.
“Once the above are completed, the club will announce a date for the player's presentation.”
Garcia joined Atleti in the summer of 2007 from Osasuna and initially struggled to live up to expectations, until a successful loan spell at his former club in 2011-12 and the subsequent arrival of Diego Simeone as Coach changed his fortunes.
However, he is now understood to be keen on pursuing a change of scenery, where he would be guaranteed regular football, and is expected to put pen to paper on a four-year contract with Athletic.
