Image Credits: Sky Sports
Manchester United have missed out on several high-profile signings over the years, much to the frustration of their fans.
Several years have passed with the Red Devils targeting players across the globe, only to have disappointed due to various reasons.
The recruitment model under the Glazers came under huge scrutiny, with fans online and in attendance protesting against the ownership for a lack of clarity and direction in recruiting smartly.
One player in particular, came close on occasions to join United – a certain Frenchman who has been renowned for possessing a wand of a left foot.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
Manchester United rejected by Antoine Griezmann
In 2017 and 2023, United were close to signing Antoine Griezmann from Atletico Madrid.
Most significantly, United’s interest in Griezmann spiked after his stellar performances at Euro 2016, where the Manchester club were willing to pay around £85m for the Frenchman.
Griezmann himself said there was a “six out of 10 chance” he would join, but he committed to Atletico in June 2017, ending United’s hopes.
United instead signed Romelu Lukaku, but the Belgian failed to live up to expectations under Jose Mourinho.
Griezmann went on to win the 2018 World Cup and later joined Barcelona in 2019, before returning to Atletico in 2021.
At 33, Griezmann remains in fairly decent form, with nine goals and six assists in 23 games this season.
United’s focus on younger players under Ineos ownership makes a future move for Griezmann unlikely, with the new recruitment model set to target younger players.
Missing out on Griezmann remains a regret for United, as he could have, and may well have been the key figure during Mourinho’s era.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!