20 transfers that were hijacked by rival clubs: Part 2

Ronaldinho: Joined Barcelona instead of Manchester United (2003)

Ronaldinho almost joined Manchester United before he was convinced to sign for Barcelona

Ronaldinho had announced himself to the world at the 2002 World Cup when he chipped David Seaman from more than 30 yards away. Following that outrageous goal, he had impressed with PSG that season and suitors lined up for his signature.

Manchester United were in pole position to sign him following their sale of David Beckham to Real Madrid. And Ronaldinho did admit later that he almost made the switch to Old Trafford.

However, this was the time when Sandro Rossell was the vice-president at Barcelona and he was a good friend of Ronaldinho having worked with Nike in Brazil. The Brazilian World Cup winner was considered a marquee signing for the club at the time and Rossell convinced Ronaldinho that his future lay at the Camp Nou.

“I could have played for another club, but I went to Barcelona because of my friendship with Sandro Rosell,” Ronaldinho explained. “I could have played for Manchester United.”