Bayern Munich’s first signing of the summer and long-term Manchester United target Renato Sanches has revealed that the Red Devils did make an offer for his services but he rejected it to sign for the German champions.

Sanches, 18, moved from Benfica to Bayern Munich for £27 million plus performance-related add-ons, and it was initally thought that Manchester United had missed out through lack of urgency shown in their interest to sign the midfielder. However, his comments on the very same day that Louis van Gaal has been sacked as manager of the Old Trafford club tell another tale.

It could be said that going to a club because that club will win titles is a lazy option – whereas a move to Manchester United would have provided more of a challenge, which could have been better for his development; but only time can tell what will become of the midfielder, who will be part of the Portugal squad for this summer’s European championships.