Duo's interest flatters ace

Liverpool and Chelsea battle for Spanish defender

By Francisco Acedo   Last updated: 25th October 2007

Fernando Amorebieta Mardaras

Amorebieta: Flattered

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Athletic Bilbao defender Fernando Amorebieta has admitted he is flattered to be linked with moves to Liverpool and Chelsea.

Reports emanating from Spain suggest Liverpool and Chelsea are tracking the versatile defender.

Amorebieta has established himself as one of the most promising young defenders in Spain and he is tipped for a big future in the game.

His performances for Bilbao this season are believed to have caught the attention of both Liverpool and Chelsea's wide-ranging scouting network.

Representatives from Liverpool and Chelsea are believed to have watched Amorebieta in action twice this season, fuelling speculation that they could make a move for the defender in January when the transfer window reopens.

Amorebieta says he is surprised by the interest from both Liverpool and Chelsea and that he would be interested in a move to England.

Interest

"I have not spoken to any English club, but their interest makes me determined to work to improve in Bilbao.

"England is a competitive league."

Bilbao are aware of the rumours regarding Amorebieta, but insist they have had no approaches for the 22-year-old.

"We know the rumours but still nobody has formally contacted us," said a Bilbao spokesperson.