Navas: I signed United deal, but didn’t want move

Keylor Navas: Real Madrid keeper almost joined United

Keylor Navas: Real Madrid keeper almost joined United

Keylor Navas has admitted he did sign a contract with Manchester United on transfer deadline day – but never wanted to move to Old Trafford.

The Costa Rican goalkeeper was set to join Manchester United in return for David De Gea, before the mega-money, high-profile £29million transfer spectacularly fell through on transfer deadline day in Spain due to an admin error.

The 28-year-old, however, says he never wanted to leave Real but did put pen to paper on a United deal and completed a medical.

“I signed the Manchester United contract on a stretcher at Valdebebas, while I had my medical,” he told COPE.

“But I want to write my own story at this club and win everything this season.

“We have things to improve, but we’re on the right path.”

Navas tears

Navas also revealed he broke down in tears when he heard he was to stay at Real Madrid.

“I never wanted to leave Real Madrid. My agent told me to be alert to my phone,” he added.

“We had to go to Barajas [Airport], although I never actually got on a plane, I was in a waiting room.

“I thought that if God wanted me to leave Madrid, it would be for the best, but he didn’t want me to and I’m still here.

“I cried that night when I found out I was staying, it was a build-up of emotions. I didn’t want to leave, Madrid is my home.”