Experienced goalkeeper Esteban will leave Almeria for Real Oviedo at the end of the season.
The 38-year-old, who joined Almeria from Celta Vigo in 2008, previously represented Oviedo between 1996 and 2002 before leaving for Atletico Madrid.
"I would have preferred it if all of this was known after the game against Athletic Club Bilbao, but the rumours were spreading like wildfire in Asturias and despite my regrets at that, they were made public," Inside Spanish Football quotes the stopper as saying.
"Almeria have known all the while about this matter, but they deserve my best conduct, as a person and as a player. It's not ideal that this comes out now, ahead of such an important game, but I want everyone to know how committed I am to AlmerÃa.
"Now more than ever, I want to say goodbye by leaving Almeria in the Primera. It would be one of my greatest achievements as a sportsman and comparable to our promotion, which was very special for me."
Esteban has also played for Sevilla and Celta Vigo during a well-travelled career.
