A former transfer target was reportedly just a signature away from joining Manchester United before Chelsea swooped in at the final moment to hijack the move.

According to reports, the deal was “90% done” with United having reached a near-complete agreement with the player’s camp, only for Chelsea to step in late with an improved package and convince the player to head to Stamford Bridge instead.

Chelsea’s fast move reportedly included a more lucrative contract and stronger sporting guarantees, forcing the player to abandon talks with United despite advanced negotiations. United officials were left stunned, believing the transfer was all but secured.

The identity of the player has not been officially confirmed, but insiders claim that Chelsea’s aggressive transfer strategy under their current ownership has disrupted several Premier League rivals, with United among the most affected.

The saga has once again raised concerns among United fans over the club’s ability to close key deals, especially when competing with financially stronger or more proactive clubs in the market.

More details on the collapsed move are expected to emerge as insiders reveal how close United were before Chelsea’s intervention changed the course of the transfer.