Athletic Bilbao prepares squad changes as Peio Canales returns and Mikel Vesga eyed by Almería

Midfielder Peio Canales has completed a season‑long loan at Racing de Santander and rejoined Athletic Bilbao's first‑team squad. The loan, which ran until 30 June 2026, did not include a purchase option, and Athletic has confirmed his place in the 2026‑27 roster after a successful spell in which he played 35 league matches, scored six goals and provided nine assists.

At the same time, veteran midfielder Mikel Vesga, 33, is expected to leave Athletic. After a decade with the club and more than 200 top‑flight appearances, Vesga has become a transfer target. Real Mallorca showed early interest, but UD Almería has emerged as the frontrunner, with the Andalusian side prepared to sign him on a free‑transfer basis while Athletic would retain a percentage of any future sale. The move would free up salary space and bring experienced leadership to Almería's promotion push.