Nacho Monreal has been a key player for Arsenal over the past couple of years, and Arsene Wenger’s confidence in the Spaniard was made clear by the contract renewal he signed earlier this year.
According to Spanish newspaper Marca, Athletic Club Bilbao tried signing Monreal in the summer, and could revive their interest in the Arsenal star.
Bilbao are preparing for the winter transfer window, and have identified Monreal as one of their targets, but Marca admit it’d be a surprise if the Arsenal defender makes a switch in January.
Marca say Bilbao certainly won’t be able to match Monreal’s wages at Arsenal, but the player would be closer to his home.
Monreal is quoted as saying during the international break: “For Athletic I only have words of thanks. For several years they have shown interest in me and I am delighted. I have only positive words for Athletic.”
As things stands, it’s very unlikely Arsenal would want to part ways with Monreal in January, or in the summer. However, Athletic will likely keep trying for Monreal, because they more or less have to.
With a very restricted group of players eligible to meet the club’s signing criteria, Athletic have to pursue every attractive half chance until that player signs or retires.
