Former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag felt Brighton & Hove Albion forward Danny Welbeck would be an excellent addition to his attack last summer.
People at the Old Trafford club gave serious thought to making him an offer, according to The Athletic.
However, with the Dutchman’s future at the club uncertain at that stage, Man United were cautious about committing to a transfer under his direction.
The Red Devils discussed Welbeck internally towards the end of last season as they weighed up how to replace the outgoing Anthony Martial.
Ten Hag was a huge admirer of the 33-year-old’s qualities after he made a lasting impression with his performance when Brighton beat United in Ten Hag’s first game in charge.
A concrete offer did not materialise for Welbeck to come back to his boyhood club, but he could have proved to be a great signing had a move worked out.
The former England international has scored six goals in nine Premier League games this term, and his huge experience would have come in handy for United.
The Red Devils ended up signing the Netherlands international forward Joshua Zirkzee in a deal worth £36.54 million, but the move has not worked out.
Welbeck’s contract at Brighton was running out at the time he was discussed as a potential signing, and signing him for nothing would have been huge for Man United.
Ten Hag could have held on to his job if Welbeck and better players were brought in, but he has been made to pay for his woeful transfer and selection decisions.
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