Manchester United boss David Moyes says they were close to landing a world class signing in the summer.
Among those linked consistently with a summer move to Manchester were Thiago Alcantara, Cesc Fabregas and Ander Herrera, while occasional reports also raised the possibility of an Old Trafford return for Cristiano Ronaldo or a hijack of Real Madrid's swoop for Gareth Bale.
Moyes didn't reveal the identity of the star player he says almost joined United but insists the move would have made big headlines.
"We were very close to a major, major signing," he said. "It's easy to say now, 'Well, you didn't do it' but we were very close to a major signing when the club would have definitely shown what its worth is."
When asked if he would resurrect a bid for the same target in January, Moyes said: "Not that particular player. I would be very, very surprised if it was [to happen] next summer, either."
