"For me it is bad because my hope was to negotiate my transfer to Liverpool," he said. "But unfortunately the Premier League decided in favour of United.

"This is not a war and I am not being anti-United. I only wanted to defend my right to search for another club without restriction. But I have to consider that my stay at United is finished.

"But to leave for another European club? I am tired about rumours linking me with France, Italy and Spain. I have never spoken with clubs in these countries, because in my head the only option has been Liverpool.

"The decision reached by the Premier League is a painful one. But my lawyers are still searching for a solution. I have instructed them to try to reach an agreement with United, one that is favourable to all parties."