Liverpool's imperious defender Virgil van Dijk has completely transformed the Reds' backline since his arrival from Southampton in 2018.
And it has been reported by The Times that Manchester United were also keen on acquiring the Dutch skipper - but left their 'desperate' approach far too late.
According to today's report, Liverpool had already pretty much sealed a deal for the £75m signing when United came calling.
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Writing in The Times, Matt Dickinson says: "It sums up the dysfunction at Manchester United to recall their attempt to sign Virgil van Dijk, which involved a frantic, desperate telephone call to see if he was still available.
"Doh! The defender had already completed his medical on Merseyside."
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The Times piece today appears to back up similar details of a very, very late approach from Manchester United that emerged last year.
Writing in the Daily Mail, Dominic King wrote last August: "[United] wanted to know the terms of [Van Dijk's] deal last December but, as is typical of that club now, the question was asked on the day Van Dijk was undergoing his medical at Anfield.
"By then it was too far late. United's loss is most definitely Liverpool's gain."
There was also believed to be strong interest from Manchester City before Van Dijk's switch to Merseyside was confirmed.
Speaking after the Dutchman signed for the Reds, City boss Pep Guardiola said: "Liverpool took an amazing player, Van Dijk is an exceptional central defender. That's a price we'll see (again) in the future. If he plays six or seven years at a high level it would be cheap.
"John Stones, when he came here, people said he was too expensive. Now he's too cheap. It always depends on the value of what happens on the pitch."
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Van Dijk, who was included in the PFA's Team of the Year, has helped Jurgen Klopp's side mount a serious title challenge this season.
As well as this the big centre-back has led the Reds to a consecutive Champions League semi-final.
Supporters will feel very relieved to know Liverpool got to the Netherlands international ahead of Jose Mourinho's then team.
