Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand claims that Thiago Alcantara wanted to move to Old Trafford before joining rivals Liverpool.
The 31-year-old spent seven years at German giants Bayern Munich before deciding to link up with Jurgen Klopp at Anfield in summer of 2020.
The experienced midfielder has become a key cog in Klopp's machine in recent months, but Ferdinand claims that the Spaniard initially wanted to sign for Man United, following a conversation with the player.
Speaking on his Vibe With Five podcast, via The Sun, Ferdinand said: "Thiago has been the standout midfielder for the last few weeks and months he's been absolutely top.
"I spoke to him at the time he joined. He speaks perfect English, he was a great guy, wanted to come to United, but you look at him now and he couldn't be happier."
Thiago has recorded three goals and three assists in 61 appearances for Liverpool across all competitions, and he and his Reds teammates are now vying to win an unprecedented quadruple.
Oliver Thomas
