Bayern Munich midfielder Thiago Alcantara has revealed how he could have joined Manchester United prior to his move to Germany.
The 24-year-old has been in impressive form at Munich, particularly in the recent Champions League matches against Arsenal.
Thiago progressed through Barcelona's academy and was a target for both Sir Alex Ferguson and David Moyes when they were in charge of United.
Fellow Spain international David de Gea also tried to persuade Thiago to move to Old Trafford, but once former Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola showed interest in taking him from Barca, the player insists Munich was always going to be his destination.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Thiago said: "There was never any firm proposal. David de Gea wanted me to join. He wrote a message on my match ball after we'd beaten Italy in the [U21 European Championship] final.
"But I'd have done the same with him. He is one of the greatest goalkeepers in the world. You always want to play with the best. But it was always going to be Munich."
Thiago was uncommitted on whether he would eventually make the move to England, although he does rate the Premier League highly.
"All I will say is that it is an amazing league. It is probably the best league in the world but I'm very happy at Bayern and fulfilled with what I am doing."