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Sofyan Amrabat was unequivocally set on turning down Liverpool before putting pen to paper with Manchester United.

The 28-year-old midfielder was highly sought after following his standout performances for Morocco in the 2022 World Cup, where the African team reached the semi-finals.

At the time, he was playing for Fiorentina and among those reportedly interested were the Premier League side, then managed by Jurgen Klopp, as well as the Red Devils, who were about to embark on their second season under Erik ten Hag.

The hard-hitting midfielder seemed a perfect match for the Reds, especially considering they eventually said goodbye to Jordan Henderson and Fabinho, who departed Anfield for the Saudi Pro League in the summer of 2023.

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Having been with the Italian club since 2020, the Serie A team was prepared to capitalize on their star player's high market value, ready to part ways with Amrabat if a club met their $35 million (£26 million) valuation.

While United's primary goal was to secure a new No.

9 - which it ultimately did with Rasmus Hojlund - Ten Hag was reportedly eyeing additional midfield reinforcements following the acquisition of Mason Mount, with Amrabat on his radar.

The Dutch manager was certainly well-acquainted with Amrabat's skills, given that the player had come through the ranks at FC Utrecht while the current Bayer Leverkusen boss was managing the Eredivisie team.

The rapport between the two not only benefited United but also disrupted Liverpool's transfer plans

After joining on loan for the 2023/24 season, he made 30 appearances in all competitions for United

Despite a lacklustre start to his tenure, he improved towards the end of the season and was lauded for his performance in United's FA Cup final victory over Manchester City.

United chose not to sign him on a permanent basis, leading to him joining Jose Mourinho's Fenerbahce on loan last season before making a permanent move to the Turkish heavyweights this summer.

Upon leaving the Premier League, he spoke candidly about his departure, stating that Ten Hag wanted to retain him, but a deal for his return couldn't be agreed upon.

Before United's Europa League match against Fenerbahce last year, he told The Mail: "I have a special relationship with Ten Hag since I was a 20-year-old at Utrecht
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