Barcelona chief Robert Fernandez insists they wanted to keep hold of Claudio Bravo.
The Chilean goalkeeper is set to sign for Manchester City - possibly today.
Speaking with Sport, Robert admits they were discussing a new deal with Bravo before City came calling.
"We were talking about a renewal, we got the offer from City and the player told us he wanted to think it over and evaluate other things," revealed Robert.
"In the end, we have reached an agreement in principle."