Former Real Madrid midfielder not interested in Borussia Dortmund switch

Asier Illarramendi insists he is happy at Real Sociedad and has ruled out joining Basque rivals Athletic Club in the future.

The 28-year-old has a €40m (£35.2m) release clause in his current Sociedad deal but that will drop to €35m (£30.8m) in June and Borussia Dortmund have been credited with an interest in the midfielder.

Dortmund face the prospect of losing Julian Weigl this summer with Manchester City and Manchester United weighing up a move for the Germany international.

The Bundesliga side are hopeful of retaining Weigl’s services but have reportedly earmarked Illarramendi as a potential replacement.

However, Peter Stoger’s side may have to look elsewhere if they have to replace Weigl as Illarramendi insists he is happy in the Basque country.

“I’m happy at la Real and I don’t want to play for Athletic, I don’t see myself in an Athletic jersey,” he told Diaro Vasco, via AS. “I know that I won’t play for Athletic, I’m happy at la Real.

“How much more is €40 million than €35 million, I have no intention to move from here.”

Illarramendi is currently gearing up for the final Basque derby of the season when Sociedad host Athletic Club on Saturday.

Known more for his defensive qualities and ability to recycle possession, Illarramendi has shown another side to his game this season.

The Spain international has remarkably scored seven goals and provided five assists in La Liga this season, more than he managed in his previous 179 appearances league appearances (11).