The manager wanted a high profile defensive signing
Jose Mourinho prioritized bolstering his squad during the summer transfer window after an underwhelming campaign last season, not winning a single silverware. They finished second in the Premier League, 19 points behind Manchester City.
The Premier League giants secured three signings during the transfer window, teenage full-back Diogo Dalot from Porto, while a £52.5 million fee was agreed with Shakhtar Donetsk for Brazil international Fred and goalkeeper Lee Grant from Stoke City.
The Portuguese was keen to add more additions in order to challenge for the title this seaso. He wanted a fast, direct winger and an experienced centre-back to complete his squad.
There were even reports the Red Devils could move to sign their former player Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid this summer. He was also linked with a move to them in the previous transfer windows too.
The Portugal International future was in doubt since the Champions League final against Liverpool back in May. He spoke about the club in the past tense after that game when he said: “We will talk in the future. It’s been really beautiful to play for Real Madrid. I’ll give a response in the coming days.”
The 33 year old ultimately completed a reported €112 million move from Real Madrid to Juventus, signing a 4 year deal. He is believed to pocket around €30 million per season.
Mourinho urged Manchester United bosses not to buy Ronaldo this summer, the Mirror claims.
He thought it was poor business to cough up £90 million for the forward as he chased a high-profile defensive signing like. They were heavily linked with a move for Toby Alderweireld but the club failed to sign him.
The English side have not got off to a great start this campaign, winning just 1 out of the 3 games so far. They will be hoping to turn around against Burnley before International break starts.
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