Athletic Bilbao defender Fernando Amorebieta will leave the Spanish club in the summer after failing to agree a new contract, reports Sky Sports.

The coveted Venezuelan’s deal runs out at the end of the season, and Bilbao are known to have withdrawn their offer of renewal when talks broke down.

Interest

A number of clubs including Arsenal, Liverpool, Everton and Barcelona are known to be keeping tabs on Amorebieta, and the news that he will now be available on a free transfer is only likely to spark more interest.

The 27-year old has made over 250 appearances at the San Mames club, becoming one of the most highly-rated and consistent performers in La Liga.

Stalwart

He was pivotal in Bilbao’s run to the final of last season’s Europa League, with his side making some notable scalps along the way, including that of Manchester United, overcoming the current Premier League leaders over two legs.

In that tie in particular, United’s usually devastating frontline was largely subdued by a Bilbao defence led by  the centre-back.

Amorebieta has eight caps for his native Venezuela, and scored the only goal in a Word Cup qualifier against Argentina in late 2011.