Athletic Bilbao star Inaki Williams has revealed he was in discussions over a move to Man Utd before signing a new contract.
The Spanish striker recently penned a new deal with the Basque club that lasts a whopping nine years despite interest from the Red Devils in the summer.
United highlighted Williams as a possible replacement for Inter Milan-bound Romelu Lukaku, and were in talks with the player prior to deadline day.
Williams confirmed he had been approached by the Premier League giants, but admitted his heart was always with Bilbao.
"I had contact from Manchester United but I cannot tell you who it was," Williams told Cadena Ser .
"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 per cent."
The 25-year-old had no qualms about committing his future to the La Liga club, signing the unusually lengthy agreement.
Most contracts run between 3-6 years, but Williams' is similar to the one Real Betis offered Brazilian Denilson over two decades ago which tied him to the club for 10 years.
Bilbao included a £125 million release clause in the contract to ward off any clubs hopeful of tempting Williams away from his hometown club.
It has also been confirmed that United held discussions with Borussia Dortmund over the transfer of Jadon Sancho.
Dortmund's sporting director Michael Zorc said: "A meeting did take place. Manchester United invited the consultant.
"But according to what I know, the consultant told the club that no matter how much money they offer, we won't let him go this summer.
"But the player also has no intention of taking that step this summer."
United look to have moved on from the disappointment of not landing either player as they are reportedly planning a fresh move for Paulo Dybala.
A swoop for the Juventus forward failed in the summer due to complications over the players financial demands.
But Dybala's situation at his club is still unclear, having played just 14 minutes of their opening four matches.
Tuttosport report that United are now plotting a move to sign the Argentine in January, even if it takes a huge bid for the 25-year-old.
