Manchester City have had an offer to buy a stake in attacking midfielder Ritsu Doan knocked back by Groningen.
The Dutch side's technical director, Ron Jans, confirmed that the Premier League side wanted to enter a deal to take part ownership of the 19-year-old after his loan deal switch from Gamba Osaka was made permanent this week.
The Japan Under-20 international has played a starring role this season, getting eight goals and three assists, but represents a big investment for Groningen, who already have Uriel Antuna on loan from City.
The Premier League side offered to help ease the burden by making a €2 million investment in the highly rated player but Jans insists Groningen want him to themselves.
Taking City's offer as a polite gesture, he told De Telegraaf: "Now we have everything in our own hands.
"We said that we really liked it that they offered it, but we're doing it on our own. The connection with City is very positive."
Doan is yet to make his first appearance for the Japan national team but could feature at the World Cup.
He is now contracted to the club until 2021, and Jans is excited to see him develop after making a big impact in the north of Netherlands.
"It is incredible to be able to adapt and develop so quickly at such a young age in a completely different culture," he said after Doan's contract was announced this week.
"He has grown during the season and has become increasingly important for the team. A big compliment for the boy."