Bilbao firm over Llorente

Fernando Llorente: Athletic Bilbao will not allow striker to depart for less than release clause

Athletic Bilbao insist they would not sell Fernando Llorente for less than his release clause, which is close to £30million.

The Athletic Bilbao marksman is being constantly linked with a move away from San Mames, despite signing a new long-term deal last season.

His current deal has a €36million (£29million) buy-out clause and the club have reaffirmed they would not take a lesser fee.

"He is a key player and we would not accept less, the supporters would not accept this," said president Josu Urrutia.

Many of Europe's top clubs have been linked with the Spain international but he is settled and insists his head has not been turned in recent weeks.

"Now I am only focused on the national side, my situation with Athletic has not changed," he said.

Llorente is currently with Spain as they looked to retain the European championship, although he has surprisingly yet to feature for Vicente del Bosque's men.