Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams would join Barcelona before a single text reportedly collapsed the £ 50 million deal.
The 22-year-old was one of the most popular goals in Europe at the start of the summer transfer window and was coveted by Arsenal, Bayern Munich and Chelsea, as well as the Laliga champions.
Barcelona seemed to have made the opposition to acquire the winner of the Euro 2024, whereby sports director Deco claimed that the Spaniard has shown a 'strong wish' to move to the well camp.
President Joan Laporta admitted that they were willing to pay his release clause of € 58 million (£ 50 million), while Athletic Bilbao has even been compiled to Laliga about the finances of Barcelona in an attempt to spoil the deal.
The winger seemed destined to join the side of Hansi Flick and to strengthen a devastating attack that already includes Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandoski.
But earlier this month Williams went back and signed a remarkable ten -year contract extension on his youth side.
A simple WhatsApp message was behind the beautiful U-turn, according to the Spanish outlet sport.
In the message that reportedly collapsed the deal, Barcelona saw that Williams would have to break tires with agent Felix Tainta in favor of Jorge Mendes or Pini Zahavi.
Tainta has a strong relationship with the Williams family, including brother Inaki Williams, and the text is said to have led indignation, an end to the chase of Barcelona.
After signing his decade long extension, Williams said that there is nothing better than continuing to play on his youth side.
“I think we have a very long season,” he said.
'We have very ambitious titles such as the Champions League, in which everyone would like to play. What can be better than doing with the club of my life?
“I would like to write history here in San Mamés, with the fans, with my family, and with great enthusiasm.”
He will continue to play alongside brother Iñaki Williams, who will be athletics next season.
“We have both always dreamed of the moment,” said Williams. 'My brother is a role model for everyone, especially for me. I think he is the best person to be a captain, and I can't wait to see him wear the bracelet for a long time. '