Tuesday, 13th November, 2012
Zenit St. Petersburg are competing with Liverpool and Roma for defender Fernando Amorebieta, according to Russian daily Izvestia.
The 27-year-old currently turns out for Spanish side Athletic Bilbao, but has as yet been unable to agree an extension to his contract at the San Mames.
Athletic Bilbao’s most recent proposal, a five-year contract, has been coolly received by the player, and he could well move elsewhere in January.
Amorebieta’s agent has admitted interest from elsewhere is on the table, with the possibility of a switch existing, though stressed that the final say will be had by the defender’s current club.
"We have several options for a move to Russia", said Gines Carvaja, hinting Zenit will also face domestic opposition for the 27-year-old.
"Zenit and another Russian club have already provided us with their offers.
"Yes, a summer move failed, but it is quite possible that in January the club will let Fernando go.
relatedNewsStory"However, I must note that in addition to the Russian teams, there are options with Italian and English clubs.
"I also want to emphasise that the last word on the move will be for the management of the club."
Amorebieta is a product of Athletic Bilbao’s youth system, but represents Venezuela at international level, despite having been capped for Spain’s Under-19s.
The defender was in impressive form last season as the Basque giants reached the finals of the Copa del Rey and Europa League respectively.
It remains to be seen whether Amorebieta is ready to head abroad, but he will not be short of options if he decides to sample a new lifestyle and league.
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