Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams was set to join Barcelona before a single text reportedly collapsed the £50million deal.
The 22-year-old was one of Europe's hottest targets at the beginning of the summer transfer window and was coveted by Arsenal, Bayern Munich and Chelsea as well as the LaLiga champions.
Barcelona appeared to have beaten off opposition to acquire the Euro 2024 winner, with sporting director Deco claiming the Spaniard has shown a 'strong desire' to move to the Nou Camp.
President Joan Laporta admitted they were willing to pay his €58m (£50m) release clause, while Athletic Bilbao even compained to LaLiga about Barcelona's finances in an effort to spoil the deal.