The agent of Manchester United midfielder Donny van de Beek says he could've joined Real Madrid.
Guido Albers says Real Madrid was an option a year before Van de Beek left Ajax for United.
He told Ziggo Sport: "In the summer (of 2020) we sat with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and the club.
"It was a painful season, we didn't want that again.
“It was September 2nd, Manchester United had qualified for the Champions League for the first time in years. There was euphoria. Bruno Fernandes was brilliant and still is. There were some snags, but it was September 2nd. And Ajax was also ready for Donny's departure. A year earlier, he was not allowed to leave. A year ago we were around with Real Madrid, but that didn't happen. Then you go and see what is possible.
“Donny wanted to play abroad. Everyone has their own opinion, but if you have played the semi-finals of the Champions League, then you also want to continue your career at such a club as Manchester United.
“At that level and that club was there at that time. It was a package that was right at the time. Solskjaer had indicated that he would play a different system, but that went completely wrong in the first five games. At the end of the season you conclude that it has been a painful season."
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