Here we take a look at 13 – unlucky for some – players who can be deemed ‘dodged bullets’ for United, some you may remember, and no doubt a few you won’t.
9. Ravel Morrison
"They turned down offers from Newcastle" - Morrison himself, in 2015, revealing United had bids knocked back for the midfielder. His career after Manchester United has been a car crash. West Ham, Birmingham, QPR, Cardiff, Lazio, Atlas (Mexico), Ostersunds and now Sheffield United. He's 26. | Getty Images Photo: Refugio Ruiz
10. Nicolai Jorgensen
Since being linked with United in January 2018 the Denmark international has scored just five goals. Hardly lethal. | Getty Images Photo: Michael Steele
11. Sandro Ramirez
A one-in-two man for Malaga after a move from Barcelona, Sandro was wanted by Rafa Benitez after promotion. In fact, it's fair to say he was right at the top of the Spaniard's shortlist. But the player went to Everton, and has not scored a league goal since he was linked with United, including spells at Sevilla, Real Sociedad and Valladolid. | Getty Images Photo: Lynne Cameron
12. Clement Grenier
When Yohan Cabaye left United, they looked to replace him with Lyon's Clement Grenier. The player turned down the move, according to his agent Frederic Guerra. Once known as the next great French hope, Grenier left Lyon for Roma and flopped. Has since turned up back in Ligue 1 with Guingamp and Rennes. | Getty Images Photo: David Price