Duñabeitia called up for Copa semi against Real Sociedad amid Segunda interest | OneFootball

Aimar Duñabeitia has been called up by Ernesto Valverde for this Wednesday’s Copa del Rey semi-final against Real Sociedad, a reward for his steady form with Bilbao Athletic.

Two standout outings, alongside goalkeeper Mikel Santos, against CD Tenerife, the stronger showing last Saturday at Lezama against the Primera Federación leaders, have not gone unnoticed on the island. El Día reports that the club’s technical department view him as a possible signing or loan for next season as they hope to return to the Segunda División.

Valverde has also drafted in Iker Monreal from the reserves, while Jon de Luis misses out this time. All three are defenders, but a first-team breakthrough remains out of reach for now.

The 22-year-old centre-back from Gernika is noted for his force and character, with 17 starts and 2 goals for the reserves this season. Cádiz explored a January loan, alongside Barakaldo right-back Beñat de Jesús, and Deportivo have also shown interest.

His near-term future hinges on summer decisions around centre-backs for pre-season, an area already crowded. Egiluz is fit again, with Vivian, Paredes and Laporte, plus Yeray Álvarez back, all fierce competition. A Segunda División loan appears the most feasible route to keep his progress moving, and suitors should be plentiful, as with De Luis and Monreal.

Source: as.com