Real Madrid make Llorente enquiries

Juventus striker Fernando Llorente has told reporters that he almost joined Real Madrid last summer before opting to join the Italian side from Athletic Bilbao. The talk comes amidst new interest from Real Madrid.

Real Madrid have so far struggled to find top gear in La Liga as they chase Barcelona and Atletico Madrid at the top of the table.


Llorente has revealed that there is still some interest from Real in his services.


"Yes, there was real interest [from Madrid]," Llorente told AS. "In the end the timing wasn't right, and something else came along. They tried to sign me at least twice.


"At first because it was impossible to leave Athletic. Over there, either someone pays your buy-out clause or you stay. The last time was when I had a year left on my contract, the year we had a good run in the Europa League [2011-12].


"As my contract began to run out Madrid were no longer interested and Juve turned up and gave me more confidence. Joining Madrid was once a possibility, as they are one of the best teams in the world."