La Liga centre-back turned down offers from both Chelsea and Man City

Athletic Bilbao defender Aymeric Laporte has confirmed that he turned down advances from both Manchester City and Chelsea in order to remain in La Liga.

The 23-year-old has been constantly linked with a move away from the Basque outfit with Manchester City, in particular, said to hold a keen interest in his services.

Speaking to L'Equipe, Laporte confirmed that there was indeed interest from the Premier League pair, but he opted to prolong his stay at San Mames at least another season.

"I had the chance to leave but I did not feel it. Also because I was injured and did not want to leave so. Chelsea's interest? I can not say anything, it's a personal thing," he said when asked about the City and Chelsea links.

Laporte is widely regarded as one of the best centre-backs in the Spanish La Liga, but it could be only a matter of time before he is tempted by a bigger challenge elsewhere.

The youngster has been ever present in the Bilbao ranks this term, having featured in all eight games in the Spanish La Liga. He currently has a £52m release clause on his contract which runs until the summer of 2020.