Manchester United held a strong interest in Juventus star Douglas Costa, the player's agent has revealed.

However, Giovanni Branchini says Juve boss Maurizio Sarri blocked the sale.

Branchini told the Daily Mail: "I sincerely say that [Massimiliano] Allegri and Sarri have never thought of letting him go.

"The interest of Manchester United was strong, a club that has always been interested in the Brazilian.

"It was not the only club but in England it was certainly the most active team on the trail of Douglas Costa."