Ander Herrera
Ander Herrera [Reuters].

The agent of Athletic Bilbao midfielder Ander Herrera has told that the player's proposed transfer to Manchester United collapsed because the two clubs could not agree a fee.

Arturo Canales also insisted his client was not disappointed by the deal's collapse, even though Herrera apparently agreed a lower salary in an attempt to force through a move to Old Trafford.

Canales told our reporter: "No-one is disappointed [by the deal's collapse]. Manchester United was a possibility if the clubs had been able to reach an agreement.

"But, because this has not happened, Ander continues at his club, where he is very happy."

Canales' assertion backs up United's own claims that they could not complete the deal because they believed Herrera's buy-out clause was not accurate, and could not reduce the fee.

However this view has been disputed in some quarters, most notably from Spanish football journalist Guillem Balague, who claims the 'delegation' which went to Spain supposedly representing United could have been imposters.

Balague said:"Representatives of Manchester United went to the Spanish league about 7.30, saying they were willing to pay the buy-out. Even though they were in the building for an hour, they left without paying the buy-out clause.

"It seems the delegation might not even have been from Manchester United."

Turbulent window

Although United eventually signed Marouane Fellaini from Everton, many fans remain frustrated after the club failed to secure a series of high-profile transfer targets.

Manager David Moyes and chief executive Edward Woodward have been castigated for submitting unrealistic bids for Cesc Fabregas and Daniele De Rossi, and leaving their attempts to reinforce the Old Trafford squad until the last few days of the window.