Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos has confirmed that he verbally agreed to sign for Manchester United back in 2014, until David Moyes' dismissal scuppered the deal.
The German established himself as one of the world's best midfielders during his time with Bayern Munich, winning three Bundesliga titles during his spell with the Bavarians.
After lifting the World Cup with Germany in 2014, he was tipped for a move to the Premier League with United keen to secure his services before Kroos eventually signed for Real Madrid.
Previously, Moyes claimed that the Red Devils had agreed a deal to lure the playmaker to Old Trafford after meeting him and his wife to seal the switch. Now, Kroos has lifted the lid on why the transfer ultimately collapsed.
Speaking to GQ Gentlemen's Quarterly magazine via lifePR , the Madrid man confirmed that a deal to move to Manchester was agreed following preliminary talks.
"I knew before that Manchester wanted me," Kroos said. "And Moyes underlined that absolutely. It was a really nice afternoon with very nice people. We talked a lot about United's footballing plan which convinced me.
"In the end, we agreed to do it. We agreed verbally."
However, United's form under the former Everton manager was disappointing and the Scot was eventually sacked following defeats against Manchester City, Liverpool and Everton.
Kroos added: "I am not somebody who worries about contingencies. Yes, it was close. I almost went to Manchester United. But it did not happen that way."
The Germany international revealed that he had no regrets on missing out on a move to Old Trafford, stating that he wouldn't have lifted as many trophies had he not moved to Spain.
"One thing I can say for sure: Manchester United would not have won the Champions League three times," said the 33-year-old. "Manchester United is not a club you go to for a short while. Manchester United is too big for a year or two. This is not a club to end your career.
"Since both the player and the club must have a clear idea - I signed with Real Madrid until 2023."
Kroos became a vital player for the Galaticos following his failed switch to United, making over 200 appearances, winning the Spanish league title once.
