Athletic Bilbao not interested in Fernando Llorente return

Athletic Bilbao have distanced themselves from reports linking them with a move for former striker Fernando Llorente. 

The 34-year old made his name with the Basque side, scoring 118 goals in nine seasons between 2004 and 2013, before on to Serie A giants Juventus. 

Despite playing a key role in their run to the Champions League final, his contract with Tottenham expires at the end of June, with Mauricio Pochettino unclear on whether or not they would be offering a new deal.

He had been widely reported to be considering a return to San Mames, before retiring, however club president Aitor Elizegi has stated that a move is unlikely. 

"I don't see a place in our current squad for Llorente.

"We already have four No.9's in the squad, and I don't think we will be looking for another striker.

"We want to keep all of those players, and keep moving forward and improving."

Llorente does have other options, with La Liga rivals Valencia, also reported to be interested in him, as well as Marseille, AC Milan and AS Roma.

Tags Fernando Llorente Tottenham Hotspur
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