Sadio Mane has revealed he snubbed an approach from Manchester United before sealing a move to Liverpool.
The Senegal forward made the switch to Anfield in June from Southampton for a fee of £30 million, with Reds winning out against stiff competition for his services.
And the presence of the charismatic Jurgen Klopp helped convince Mane that Liverpool was the best place for him to ensure that his career continues on its upward trajectory.
The Reds manager had tried to sign Mane while managing Borussia Dortmund from his then-club Salzburg, having been aware of his talents since the 2012 Olympics.
When asked about the supposed interest from Liverpool’s arch rivals United, Mane said: “Yes, it was true. There was interest from a lot of clubs, not just Manchester United, but as soon as I knew Liverpool were interested I just felt it was the right club with the right coach. It was right for me to come here.
“Liverpool are a massive club with a big history that has won many trophies over the years and as soon as I was told of the possibility to come here and I knew the manager wanted me I said yes.
“It was the right move. I recognise the size of the club and to progress to another level as a player this was the club and the moment for me. It was a step I needed to make.”
Mane is club’s third most-expensive ever signing. However, the 24-year-old is not worried about the fee and insists he can handle the pressure that will be placed upon him.
“It’s football isn’t it? That’s the game these days,” he added. “The thing for me is not to focus on the fee. I just have to focus on what I can do in the games and in training.
“I want to take the club as far as I can.”
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