TalkSPORT: Clubs on alert for Llorente

Fernando Llorente has dropped the biggest hint yet that he wants out of Athletic Bilbao - by saying he is desperate to end his barren run and leave his side as high as possible in La Liga.

Contract negotiations broke down over the summer and, with his deal up at the end of the season, Llorente looks set to go.

Bilbao are desperately trying to salvage the situation and a final round of talks are planned but it is understood the Spain international wants a new challenge.

Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool are all watching developments regarding the striker and the Premier League trio can bypass the La Liga side in January and talk to their star asset directly.

Llorente could negotiate a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs when the window opens and in an interview with El Correo, he has hinted he is ready to leave.

The 27-year-old has scored just once this season and he said: "Hopefully I can get a few goals by the end. The more the merrier - and I'd like to leave the team as high in the table as I can."

His uncertain situation at the club has not only affected his goalscoring return but Bilbao's fortunes, too. They are a lowly 14th in La Liga and qualifying for Europe next season is by no means certain.

Llorente insists his contract stand-off has nothing to do with his poor form and he has vowed to give everything for the club while he is still there.

"You have to forget what has happened (regarding his future and talk of an exit). Perhaps I have lacked luck this year," he added.

"I will continue to give everything here for Athletic."

Source: TalkSPORT