Manchester United were well out of the race for new Arsenal signing Aaron Ramsey, it has been revealed.
Cardiff City's 17-year-old was the subject of £5million bids from all three clubs but was swayed after a meeting with Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger in Switzerland.
But in the race for his signature, Everton edged ahead of United, who were initial favourites when Ramsey was granted permission by Cardiff to begin talks.
He was unconvinced by a move to Old Trafford, as United had agreed to loan him back to Ninian Park for next season and he never managed to meet manager Sir Alex Ferguson face to face.