Athetic Bilbao are exploring the prospect of re-signing Javi Martinez from Bayern Munich.
WAZ says Martinez and Bayern have mutually agreed to go their separate ways.
The 31 year-old now could return to Spain and to Bilbao, where he would be welcome with open arms.
Last month, Bilbao president Aitor Elizegi stated: "We have to thank Javi for speaking well about Athletic and it is good that the players who have been here want to return to Lezama.
"It will be Alkorta and Garitano who decide."