We were his second option? Then what tipped the scale for him to sign that contract?No way.
He had Bayern and a line of other big clubs after him, you don't renew for 10 years because Barca can't give you guarantees.
We were his second option from the start, no way this contract hasn't been negotiated for the past month if not more. He used us as leverage against Bilbao.
Not saying we are in the best Financial situation, but Nico renewing isn't an indication of anything
Like you say I think he's had that offer on the table a while.
I think Barca would be his first option and that's why Athletic also wanted to challenge the possibility of us signing him, thus eliminating Nico's first option so he would stay.