Marko Arnautovic confirmed that he was close to leaving Bologna for Manchester United in the summer transfer window.
The 33-year-old Austrian striker had a great campaign last season with the Rossoblu, scoring 14 goals in 33 Serie A matches, and his work attracted the attention of the Red Devils. Manchester United seriously explored a move for Arnautovic but ultimately looked elsewhere, in part because of the fans’ clear unhappiness over the deal.
Speaking to Laola1, Arnautovic reflected on his summer and confirmed the intentions of Manchester United.
“Manchester United tried to sign me several times and it was a difficult decision to stay in Italy because my family wanted to return to England.
“For me it’s clear that the Red Devils remain at the top of the universe and Bologna, as a name, are not. But that’s fine.
“Here everything is calm, you have time for yourself and no stress. This is only good for me.”
The 33-year-old Arnautovic has continued doing well for Bologna this season, scoring eight goals in 13 league games under Sinisa Mihajlovic and Thiago Motta. He is contracted to the club until 2024.
Manchester United will again be on the market for a new forward in January, with Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent tell-all interview with Piers Morgan essentially forcing his departure from the club. It’s unlikely that they’ll return for Arnautovic, however.