Man Utd tried to use Sir Alex Ferguson to convince transfer target they were 'smitten' with to sign but were too late

Manchester United reportedly tried to use Sir Alex Ferguson to lure one player to Old Trafford but were too late.

United enjoyed a busy summer transfer window having brought in the likes of Joshua Zirkzee, Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui and Manuel Ugarte.

However, Erik ten Hag has endured a tough start to the campaign after losing to Brighton and Hove Albion and Liverpool over the last couple of weeks.

Heading into the latest international break, United are currently 14th in the Premier League table.

In a recent report, it has been claimed that United wanted to bring Michael Olise to Old Trafford.

As reported by the Daily Mail, the Red Devils ‘were so smitten with the idea of signing’ the Frenchman they were prepared to ask Ferguson to lure the then Crystal Palace man to United.

However, they were too late as Olise had already set his sights on a move to German Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich.

The report stated: “They were so smitten with the idea of signing Olise that they were ready to enlist the help of Sir Alex Ferguson in trying to persuade the winger to join.

“But United were too late. Olise was set on Bayern - although United would be at front of the queue if the France international decides to leave in the future.”

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Upon joining Bayern, Olise, who was part of the France team that won the silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, said: “The talks with FC Bayern were very positive, and I’m very happy to now be playing for such a big club. It's a great challenge, and that's exactly what I was looking for.

“I want to prove myself at this level and play my part in ensuring that we win as many titles as possible with our team in the coming years.”

Bayern sporting director Christoph Freund added: “Michael is quick, tricky, a goal threat and very versatile in attack. His goals and assists stats are already outstanding.

“At the age of 22, Michael is already very advanced, but is also hungry and still has a lot of potential. Fans come to the stadium to see players like Michael Olise.”