The 27-year-old Dutch international was linked with a move to Old Trafford all summer, while Manchester City and Chelsea were also thought to be possible destinations for the midfield playmaker. And, with Italian giants Inter looking to offload one of their top earners during the transfer window, Sneijder was convinced that a move to United was 'close'.However, despite reports that his financial demands scuppered his chances of a move to the Red Devils, Sneijder is adamant that Cameroon international striker Eto'o's move to Russian side FC Anzhi Makhachkala was the real reason he stayed at the San Siro.
But, he is not disappointed given that he is happy to stay at Inter for a third successive season.On the link to United, Sneijder told AD: "I just felt that it was close, yes [I thought I was going]."We had several talks, the situation was such that Inter had to sell a player, Eto'o or me, and indeed there was interest.
"They [Manchester United] are one of the biggest clubs in the world, so it did not seem a bad thing - but at the same time I do not want to leave Inter."Italy is great for me, and I cannot exclude that they [United] got that feeling, for me a move was not an absolute must and there were a few things which meant it did not happen."He added: "For me it was not so much a financial issue, my feeling was that I was simply feeling very good at Inter, I love the club but also the Italian culture and the people, it fits me."
Source: DSG
