Bournemouth striker Joshua King has spoken for the first time about his failed move to Manchester United.
The Cherries rejected United's attempt to sign their academy graduate towards the end of last month's transfer window.
The Red Devils moved on and signed Odion Ighalo, and King admits he was disappointed not to seal a return to Old Trafford.
King told Norwegian outletTV 2: "How close it was I have no complete answer to. I have to watch what I say.
"I had some faith that it was going to happen. And it was a bit sensitive for me considering that I moved to England as a 16-year-old to achieve my dream and wanted to reach that goal at Manchester United.
"It did not [happen] and then I made a choice and left. When you hear that you are connected to United and a bid comes in, then the feelings you had as a 16-year-old come back to you.
"But why it did not happen, I do not know."
King added: "I'm a Bournemouth player and I really enjoy it here. "But it had been a dream come true, I will not lie. But that didn't happen and I'm going to give everything to Bournemouth as long as I'm in this club.
"The coach [Eddie Howe] was absolutely fantastic with me during those days and was very helpful with me. I have respect for how he behaved with me during the little episode.
"So I just have to keep working hard to try to help the club out of the situation we're in now."