Ander Herrera’s move to Manchester United is currently being held up by executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward, although it is expected to be announced this week.
Herrera, who has spent three seasons with Athletic Bilbao since joining them from Real Zaragoza in 2011, will see his release clause rise to £33.5m on July 1 but Spanish daily Marca had reported earlier this week that Premier League side Man United have already agreed a deal.
United have been keen on Herrera since they met the Basque side in the Champions League two seasons ago and with new boss Louis van Gaal also a fan, it is now understood that the youngster will arrive at Old Trafford next season.
However, Mundo Deportivo reported that Athletic Bilbao confirmed via their Spanish language site that a deal was rejected due to United’s resolve in paying the fee by installments, which the Basque club are unwilling to accept.
That has led a number of United fans to attack vice-chairman Ed Woodward, with some calling for him to leave his role, ahead of what is set to be a very important transfer window for the Old Trafford side.
Herrera is currently in Manchester, enjoying a tour of the stadium and is understood to have accepted terms, but it is uncertain at this point whether or not United will make another bid and when.