Manchester United news: Lucas Moura reveals why he picked PSG over Old Trafford

The Brazilian was a target for United in 2012

(Getty Images)

Paris Saint-Germain winger Lucas Moura has revealed how he nearly joined Manchester United in 2012 but changed his mind "at the last minute".

Speaking earlier this week the Brazilian's agent, Wagner Ribeiro had revealed that the 23-year-old was offered a "superior proposal" by United at the time, but Moura preferred the city of Paris.

In an interview with the Daily Telegraph, Moura again makes it clear that Paris was a major draw for him, especially the Eiffel Tower.

"It’s the most beautiful place in the world," he says. “When I first arrived in Paris I was [at the Eiffel Tower] all the time. I would go there to reflect, to think. I was drawn to it."

Lucas is fit to play against Manchester City in the Champions League quarter-final first leg, although it is unclear if Laurent Blanc will pick him or go more defensive.

PSG eventually trumped Manchester United, signing Lucas, who has eight goals and five assists in 37 appearances this season, for €45million.

He added: "I was very close to joining Manchester United. It nearly happened but, at the last minute, Leonardo (then PSG director of football) called me and spoke to me and my parents.

"It was a very difficult moment because suddenly I had to make a choice when I thought I was joining Manchester United.

"I thought about it a lot; I talked about it with my family and I made my choice. Football is like that. You have to choose a team."