AS Monaco vice-president Vadim Vasilyev has admitted that the club could not refuse Manchester United's "incredible offer" for Anthony Martial.
The French forward has become the most expensive teenager in the world after completing a £36m move to the Red Devils.
However, Vasilyev has revealed that the club didn't want Martial to leave before United's bid came in.
He told the club's official website: "We wished to keep him this season, but Manchester United made an incredible offer that neither Anthony, nor AS Monaco, could refuse.
"Our project showcases many players and Anthony has proven his worth and potential on the pitch.
"Though this move was not planned, it shows the quality of the work undertaken by the technical staff but also that we were right to recruit him two years ago. We wish Anthony the best for the next chapter in his career."
Martial is currently with the French national team ahead of their friendlies against Portugal and Serbia this week.
Chris O'Keefe
