Wednesday, 4th September, 2013
Athletic Bilbao midfielder Ander Herrera has lifted the lid on the failed Manchester United approach, insisting that there was never any agreement to take him to England.
As the transfer window came to a close on Monday, Manchester United were reported to have put down the €36m release clause for Herrera.
Amid last-minute bids all across England, many expected the Herrera deal to go through with Manchester United representatives reportedly at La Liga headquarters in Spain to pay the clause value.
However, chaos ensued as an apparent "bureaucratic error" ended hopes of a deal, with even reports of fraudsters impersonating Manchester United lawyers doing the rounds.
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It has now been revealed that no decision on putting down the release clause was ever present, as Herrera reiterated his commitment to the Athletic cause.
"There was never any agreement closed with Manchester United", Herrera told a press conference.
"I am proud that United bid for me and that Athletic wanted to keep me, but I was never told that United would pay the clause. There are questions that United need to answer.
"There were no lawyers represented at the LFP. I do not even know who they are. At no point did either my agent or I reach an agreement with United.
"I'm very flattered to see that one of the biggest clubs in the world such as United bid for me, but I did not, at any time, talk with them. I've been very quiet.
"I will continue to demonstrate my commitment to Athletic as has been the case since the day I first arrived."
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