Wesley Sneijder claims Inter Milan prevented him making a summer move to Manchester United in 2010 as the Italian club’s demands were too high.

At the time, the playmaker was considered to be one of the best in Europe having been at the heart of the success to Inter’s historic treble, which included winning the Champions League.

United were believed to be chasing a creative midfielder and made an official approach for the Dutchman, but Inter’s asking price put them off, with Sneijder staying on at the San Siro for another two years before joining Galatasaray in January.

Interest

Speaking of United’s interest, Sneijder told Turkish magazine Dergisi, as reported by Sky Sports, “We had some talks with Alex Ferguson back in 2010.

“They [United] contacted the club after our Treble season but too much money was asked for. And I was also happy at Inter so I decided to stay.

“Manchester United are a fantastic club and they kept showing interest after that year but not as determined as before.

“I don’t give much thought about proposed transfers, if I’m happy somewhere I’m Happy there.”

Possibilities

Sneijder has also said he could have joined Barcelona in 2007 while he was at Ajax, but opted to join their Spanish counterparts Real Madrid instead in a move which ultimately saw him struggle at the Bernabau.

The 28 year-old added “Real Madrid were very persausive about signing me.

“There were two possibilities in Spain for me: either Real Madrid or Barcelona.

“Barca are really a great club and they have won everything for the past six years but I always liked Real Madrid’s white shirt. I was very excited when they offered me a deal and took it immediately. And for me, they have a greater history than Barcelona.”