Athletic optimistic over one-year Yuri Berchiche renewal | OneFootball

Athletic are optimistic about agreeing a one-year extension with Yuri Berchiche, whose deal expires on 30 June. According to El Correo, talks have intensified and the proposed renewal would be for a single season, not tied to appearance thresholds.

The plan is not a ceremonial reward but to retain a left-back who remains influential after a disappointing campaign. The 36-year-old from Zarautz aspires to a farewell akin to Óscar de Marcos, starting and giving his all to the end.

If he departs, Edin Terzic would face a serious problem. Adama Boiro would be the only left-back after Lekue’s non-renewal. Signed from Osasuna for two million, Boiro impressed at the Santiago Bernabéu but still needs time.

Berchiche underlined his value by playing 38 matches across four competitions this season, starting 34. He logged 3,186 minutes, the fifth-highest in the squad, behind Unai Simón, Mikel Jauregizar, Dani Vivián and Gorka Guruzeta. He also filled in capably at centre-back amid injuries.

The club informed him months ago that they wished to extend his stay, but he asked for time. In January he indicated he would decide at season’s end, was not anxious about the call, and was weighing life at 36 while aiming to enjoy himself and leave Athletic as high as possible.

Berchiche joined in 2018 from PSG for 25 million, the club’s second costliest deal after the 32 for Íñigo Martínez. He has made 278 appearances and scored 15 goals, missing a top-minutes finish only in 2021-22 due to pubalgia surgery.

Source: El Correo