Kepa Arrizabalaga confirmed he received offers from rival clubs but chose to stay with Athletic Bilbao because it is his ‘home’.
The 23-year-old has signed a seven-year contract extension at the San Mames with an €80m release clause, despite reported interest from Real Madrid.
“I had offers to leave, but I believe that remaining here is my best option – this club is my home,” Kepa is quoted as saying.
“I am very happy to continue here, at Athletic. I have been here for almost 15 years and this is a hugely important moment in my career.
“Anyone who knows me is aware I have thought long and hard about my options and analysed everything before coming to a decision.
“I am looking forward to returning to first-team football because playing for this club is a privilege.
“My injuries have not been easy to deal with for the past few weeks but I am making progress and I’m close to a return, but I don’t want to put any deadlines on it.”
