Peterborough United chairman Darragh MacAnthony has lifted the lid on the race with Rangers and others to sign Oldham Athletic centre-back George Edmundson.
It was reported last week by Football Insider that the Posh were leading the race for the 21-year-old's signature after having a bid accepted, something MacAnthony has admitted.
But the Irishman slammed Oldham for how they handled dealings after the League One side were granted permission to speak to Edmundson.
Writing on Twitter on Monday night, he said:"I now officially pulling us from deal.
"Could have remained silent but due to leak from last week it’s important our fans know truth re the deal. And I most certainly won’t be dealing with said club owners involved ever again.
"Player was on holiday but plan was for player to come to club last Friday for medical & contract discussions day after he returned from holiday.
"3 days prior a story leaked we’d agreed a fee and full detail on all aspects of transfer out there for all to see.
"Other clubs see article so those clubs agreed fee. Our Friday appointment with player still happening as per our agreement with club who owns him. 36 hours before this meeting with player, club contacts us to state our deal is off unless we pay more blah blah."
Peterborough are eager to strengthen this summer as they look to make a push for promotion under Darren Ferguson.
A host of new faces have already arrived at London Road including Mo Eisa, Mark Beevers, Christy Pym, Dan Butler and Niall Mason.
But Edmundson will not be joining them with Rangers now reportedly back in the driving seat to land his signature.
The verdict
I think this is more than fair enough from MacAnthony.
Oldham's owners are not particularly well thought of, that is no secret, but it will be interesting to see if this makes the likes of Rangers think twice about a deal.
But as the owner of a League One club, MacAnthony cannot afford to be squeezed of every possible penny and I respect his decision to walk away and to also give details on the dealing.