Karanka goes back to Bilbao
Wednesday 29 May 2002
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Aitor Karanka, the Real Madrid CF defender, has returned to former club Athletic Club Bilbao on a free transfer.
Three-year contract
The 28-year-old former Spanish international, who played in Madrid's UEFA Champions League final win against Valencia CF in 2000, signed a three-year contract with the Basque club, where he will link up with his younger brother, David Karanka.
Agreement reached
"Athletic Bilbao and Aitor Karanka have reached an agreement for the player to sign for three seasons with an optional fourth season," said the club's official website.
Deportivo rejected
Karanka, who played 118 times for Bilbao before buying out his contract and moving to Madrid in the 1997/98 season had earlier this week rejected an offer from RC Deportivo La Coruña, under their former Bilbao coach, Jupp Heynckes. Karanka's contract with Madrid was due to expire on 30 June.
Brotherly love
His brother, David, a 24-year-old striker said: "It is great news for me and a great signing for the club. I have always said that it would be a dream to play alongside him and he will give a lot to the club, especially his experience."
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