The former Red Devils defender claims the Spain international wanted a move to Old Trafford during the summer of 2013
Rio Ferdinand has revealed that Manchester United passed up the chance to sign Thiago Alcantara during the summer of 2013, with David Moyes favouring a move for Marouane Fellaini.
The classy Spain international midfielder was preparing to sever ties with Barcelona in that transfer window, with an exit from Camp Nou being sought amid fierce competition for places.
Interest from England was sounded out, with Ferdinand asked to nudge the Red Devils towards doing a deal, but recruitment advice was ignored and a man now at Liverpool ended up joining Pep Guardiola at Bayern Munich.