Athletic Bilbao signed Osasuna right-back Jesus Areso on Tuesday despite reports Atletico Madrid had agreed a deal for the Spaniard.

“Athletic and Osasuna have reached a deal for the transfer of the full-back Jesus Areso, who signs for the red-and-whites until June 30, 2031,” said Athletic in a statement.

Areso, 26, played for Athletic’s reserve side until 2021, when he joined Osasuna, and his return cost the Basque side up to 12 million euros ($14 million), according to Spanish reports.

Ernesto Valverde’s Athletic finished fourth last season in La Liga and managed to tie down winger Nico Williams earlier this summer despite interest from Barcelona.

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