Iñaki Williams has revealed he had contact with Manchester United before signing a new contract to remain at Athletic Bilbao.
The Spanish striker was linked with a late deadline day switch to Old Trafford, but signed a huge nine-year deal to remain at the Basque side until 2028.
Many United fans thought there was no serious interest in the 25-year-0ld, who was a surprise name to be linked with a move to Old Trafford, despite the Reds needing a forward following the departure of Romelu Lukaku to Inter Milan.
But, speaking to Spanish radio outlet Cadena Ser, as quoted by the Independent, Williams said:
“I had contact from Manchester United but I cannot tell you who it was.
“My number one option has always been to stay at Athletic Club and to retire here. Joining Real Sociedad? No, I could never go there. 100%.”
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Williams’ new buy-out clause at Athletic Club is €135m, all but interest any sustained interest United had in the versatile forward.
With Sanchez and Lukaku both exiting the club this summer, an attacking replamcnet should have realistically been brought in. But Williams may not have necessarily been the answer, with his most prolific season in La Liga warranting just 13 goals.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is heavily reliant on youth in attack this season, with Mason Greenwood expected to earn more minutes when the Europa League group stages begin later this month.
