Terzic could start pre-season with 40 players | OneFootball

Edin Terzic is preparing for a crowded start to pre-season at Athletic, with around 40 players potentially reporting as he begins a two-season stint. According to as.com, the former Borussia Dortmund coach has been assessing the squad for months from Germany. The tally arises from 27 contracted first-teamers, nine returning loanees, four or five possible promotions and any external additions.

Early work will focus on slimming the group to about 25, a process expected to take weeks. The final number would depend on whether Athletic qualify for Europe or remain in two competitions.

Renewals are a priority alongside the club’s technical structure, with Yeray Álvarez already tied until June 2028 with an optional extra season. Lekue’s deal ends on 30 June and his future is uncertain, while talks have been ongoing for weeks in Ibaigane on extensions for Yuri Berchiche and Rego. The plan is one more year for the full-back and updated terms for the midfielder, who can be tied unilaterally for two further seasons.

Loanees under contract will return for pre-season and Terzic must decide whether they fit his plans or head out again. Agirrezabala, Canales, Gerenabarrena, Vencedor, Djaló, Rincón, Manex Lozano, Varela and Olabarrieta are in that group, as is Vizcay at Arenas.

From the B team, decisions also loom on Santos, Monreal, De Luis, Selton, Eder García, Ibon Sánchez, Beñat García Goñi and Hierro. All have appeared with the first team this season and could be promoted or loaned.

Source: as.com