Liverpool moved swiftly to finalise the signing of Fabinho earlier this summer, and their new midfielder has opened up about old rumours linking him with Manchester United.
According to Sky Sports, the Reds snapped up the former Monaco full-back/central midfield hybrid in a deal worth £43.7 million, with manager Jurgen Klopp looking to bolster his squad in order for them to build on last season after securing top-four and a run to the Champions League final.
The Brazilian international, who was left out of the 23-man squad for the World Cup, will add versatility to the team.
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As noted by Italian outlet Calciomercato, United were initially keen on bringing Fabinho to England, with our reported interest dating back to last summer.
However, the man himself has been speaking to ESPN about those rumours and revealed that he was never close to joining United.
“I was never close to signing for Manchester United, no,” he said.
“I heard things said about it, but the truth is it was never a strong possibility. I won’t deny there were a few conversations about my situation with Monaco, but there was never an official offer from United.
“As soon as Liverpool declared their interest in signing me, it was a simple decision to make. A club with Liverpool’s history wants you? Come on, you just pack your bags and go. It will be an honour to wear the famous red shirt.”
With pre-season training underway, Fabinho will be hoping to impress Klopp and his new team-mates. He will also be expected to cement a spot in the starting line-up on a regular basis.