Manchester United once attempted to sign Pele in stunning transfer

Manchester United once attempted to sign Pele, the Brazilian icon claimed.

Yesterday the football world went into mourning after it was announced that Pele, arguably the greatest player ever, had died at the age of 82.

During a star-studded career spanning 21 years, Pele is credited for netting a world record 1,281 goals in 1,363 appearances.

Meanwhile, he is the only player to have won the World Cup three times, lifting the coveted Jules Rimet trophy in 1958, 1962 and 1970.

Brazil president Jair Bolsonaro has declared three days of national mourning for the icon, who was named FIFA’s Player of the Century in 2000.

United were one of many clubs across the world to pay tribute to Pele. Indeed, club ambassador Sir Bobby Charlton led the tributes to his former opponent and long-time friend.

In a statement, Charlton said: “Pele was a truly magical footballer and a wonderful human being. It was an honour to have shared a pitch with him and I send my sincerest condolences to his family, friends and the Brazilian people.”

The pair played against one another at the 1958, 1962 and 1970 World Cups, though never met at domestic level. However, Pele, who famously never played in Europe, once admitted the pair could have been teammates at United.

Man Utd attempted to sign Pele

The No.10 spent the majority of his playing days at Sao Paulo with his beloved Santos, where he won a number of state and national championships as well as the Copa Libertadores twice.

However, Pele revealed in a 2006 Guardian interview that several European clubs attempted to sign him in 1968, including United, who were then coached by club legend Sir Matt Busby.

Real Madrid, Juventus and AC Milan were all reportedly interested, and when asked if any of the offers tempted him, Pele said: "Manchester! I even had a proposal from Manchester United."

The Brazil legend labelled the 1968 United side as the club’s “best team”. Had he swapped Brazil for Manchester, he would have featured alongside the likes of George Best, Denis Law and Charlton.

Even without Pele, that United side went on to be crowned European Champions later that year, after a 4-1 victory against Benfica.

On never moving to Europe, Pele added: "No, no, no. I said no to every team who asked me."

"Real Madrid was the best team who wanted me. They were a very good team. But I didn't want to leave Santos."