Robert Lewandowski opted to remain at Borussia Dortmund.
Borussia Dortmund striker Roberto Lewandowski has revealed he turned down a move to Manchester United last summer.
The Poland international was linked with a move to Old Trafford after impressing at Euro 2012 but the speculation ended after United landed Robin Van Persie from Arsenal.
Lewandowski went on to score 36 goals in all competitions, including a hat-trick in the 4-1 Champions League semi-final first leg win over Mourinho’s Real Madrid.
The 25-year-old says he held talks with former United boss Sir Alex Ferguson but felt it was not the right time to leave Dortmund.
“One year earlier I also spoke to Sir Alex Ferguson and that was definitely a great feeling,” the forward told Sky Sports.
“The retirement of Sir Alex didn’t affect my decision not to come to England. He spoke to me one year ago. It was not at a good time.
“I knew I still had something big to achieve in Dortmund before I joined a bigger club.”
The forward also said Real Madrid were unsuccessful in their attempts to talk him out of leaving Dortmund.
Lewandowski confirmed that Florentino Perez, Real’s president, did speak to him after the Champions League semi-final, second leg.
“It was in the office near the dressing room at the Bernabeu straight after the match. We spoke to each other briefly and…OK, let’s just say we spoke.
“I didn’t say ‘no’. I was mostly listening to Mr Perez.”
Bayern Munich have been linked with Lewandowski this summer and the European champions look set to win the race for his signature at the end of this season, with the attacker revealing a January move to the Premier League would be tricky.
“Well, I don’t know how to say it now but it may be difficult,” said Lewandowski.
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