In an interview with Mundo Deportivo*, Deco explained that Barça had set out their own terms during talks but refused to bow to conditions imposed from the other side.
“Athletic are not an example, not at all,” Deco said.
“We set the club’s conditions, then negotiations have to be put on paper. We made it clear we wouldn’t accept the conditions they were imposing, because no player is going to dictate terms to us.”
The former midfielder emphasized that Barcelona will remain firm in protecting their transfer policy and will not allow agents or clubs to dictate the structure of deals.
Deco’s comments come amid growing tension around potential moves for Athletic stars, with Nico Williams frequently linked to Barcelona in recent months.