Llorente: I am happy to play for Athletic Bilbao

Aug 20, 2012 5:03:00 PM

The Spain striker revealed that he is still enjoying his time in the Basque country, despite not renewing his contract with the San Mames outfit and being linked with a move away

Fernando Llorente has admitted that he is still enjoying playing for Athletic Bilbao, and even hinted that he could stay in Spain.

Llorente has been linked with a move away from Athletic all summer, with his agent recently telling Corriere dello Sport that Juventus are a definite option for the striker.

Check out the latest transfer rumours and gossip in our dedicated Transfer Talk section here

However, in what appears to be somewhat of a u-turn, the 27-year-old has told itasportpress.it that he is pleased to still be playing for Los Leones.

"I do not know who talks about me," the Spain international said. "Right now I am just thinking about my team.

"I am happy to play at Athletic Bilbao because I feel an important player and I will continue here. My contract renewal? Let's see."

The Basque club have stressed that they will only let go of Llorente if a potential buyer coughs up his full €36 million buy-out clause, despite the fact that his contract expires at the end of next season.

Juventus, however, are confident that they can persuade the Spanish side to lower their asking price.

Llorente, along with Bayern Munich target Javi Martinez, was left out of Athletic's 5-3 defeat at home to Betis on Sunday.

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