Bielsa 'happy & sad' about Llorente's deal with Juventus

26/01/2013 5:05:00 AM

The Athletic Bilbao coach is sure that the 27-year-old will continue to be fully committed to the club until the end of the season, while Ibai Gomez is happy to see the saga end

Athletic Bilbao coach Marcelo Bielsa has said that he is both happy and sad to see Fernando Llorente agree a deal to join Juventus in the summer.

The Spain international has long been linked with the Bianconeri, and it was confirmed on Thursday that he would move to Turin, but the Argentine is certain the player will give his all to the club until the end.

“It gives us both joy and sadness that he will stop with this team, something we have known since August," he said at a press conference.

"I do not believe he will lose his performance level since this confirmation."

Meanwhile, Athletic midfielder Ibai Gomez has wished his team-mate all the best when he eventually moves to Serie A in July.

"Llorente is our player until the end of the season; I wish him all the best when he leaves. Now the soap opera is over, hopefully we can get back to football."

The 27-year-old moved to San Mames in 2004, and has made in excess of 300 appearances for the Basques since making his first-team debut in 2005.