Bilbao want Del Horno back

Athletic Bilbao want to re-sign Asier Del Horno, who is tempted to return to Spain.

Athletic Bilbao want to re-sign Asier Del Horno, who admits he is tempted to leave Chelsea and return to Spain.

Valencia have already registered their interest in the left back, but could be rivalled by Del Horno's former club.

The Spain international joined Chelsea for £8 million from Bilbao 12 months ago, but he is now available at £4.8 million.

Bilbao have confirmed they are willing to match the player's valuation and hope to discuss the possibility of Del Horno returning to San Mames.

"We are ready to equal the ‚é¼7 million (£4.8 million) offer made by Valencia to Chelsea for Asier Del Horno," Bilbao president Fernando Lamikiz told Bilbovision.

"Then we would have to analyse the player's salary and negotiate with him."

The 25-year-old is fully aware of Valencia's bid for his services and concedes he could move on from the Premiership champions.

But, for the time being, Del Horno plans to focus on returning to training with The Blues before making a decision on his future.

Del Horno told Las Provincias: "I would love to return to the Primera Liga because it's a competition that I am very familiar with.

"I am very honoured by the interest from Valencia.

"For the time being, though, my club is Chelsea and for that reason I have gone to pre-season training with them."