Athletic agree Benat deal

Spanish radio Cope Sevilla has learnt that Athletic Bilbao have agreed to sign Real Betis midfielder Benat Etxebarria.

According to the same source, the transfer is worth €8 million, but the fee could rise to €12 million depending on performance related bonuses.

Benat Etxebarria’s deal with Betis was due to expire in June 2014, and that was the main reason why los Verdiblancos opted to cash in on their star player.

The 26-year-old was also followed by Chelsea and Manchester City, but he ultimately decided to accept an offer from the club where it all started for him.

Benat came through the youth ranks at San Mames, but left los Leones for Real Betis after making just one Premier League appearance for the club.

He has since developed into one of Spain’s best central midfielders and has been in fine form this term, scoring 4 goals and setting up another 8 in 31 league matches.