Andre Onana turned down interest from Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur to join Manchester United from Inter Milan during this summer's transfer window, according to his agent Albert Botines.
Man United completed a deal for the 27-year-old on July 20, and he immediately flew to the United States to link up with his new teammates on their pre-season tour.
Onana made his debut for Erik ten Hag's side in the 2-0 loss to Real Madrid last week before also playing in the 3-2 defeat to Borussia Dortmund on Sunday night.
The former Cameroon international will now play against either Lens or Athletic Bilbao this weekend ahead of a likely official debut against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League on August 14.
According to Botines, Onana had been the subject of interest from Chelsea and Tottenham earlier this year, with the two London clubs making it clear that they were keen to sign him.
© Reuters
However, the goalkeeper was determined to secure a move to Man United, with Ten Hag's presence as head coach placing the Red Devils in a strong position to sign him.
Onana played under Ten Hag at Ajax between 2017 and 2022, and the pair's strong relationship was key to Man United being able to bring him to Old Trafford.
"It all started a few months ago," Botines told Calciomercato. "Towards April, many inquired about the player.
"Tottenham have asked for information. Chelsea have had a very strong interest. There were meetings in London and Chelsea also met with Inter, but Ten Hag was key.
© Reuters
"We are looking forward to facing great managers like [Pep] Guardiola and trying to win titles with Manchester United. We have a great desire to excel."
Tottenham have brought in Guglielmo Vicario from Empoli to be their number one for the coming season, but Chelsea still have Kepa Arrizabalaga as their first-choice stopper despite seemingly being keen to sign a replacement.
Onana was in excellent form for Inter during the 2022-23 campaign, making 41 appearances in all competitions, keeping 19 clean sheets in the process.
The Cameroonian played a key role in the Italian giants reaching the final of the Champions League, only conceding 11 times in 13 matches in the competition, producing eight shut-outs.
