Andre Onana rejected two major Premier League clubs before opting to join Manchester United, his agent has confirmed.
Erik ten Hag was vital in convincing the shot-stopper to join the Red Devils in a £47million deal earlier this summer, he said.
The 27-year-old played 145 times under Erik ten Hag between 2017 and 2022 at Ajax and the two have a strong relationship, both personally and in terms of the style of football they prefer.
'It all started a few months ago,' Albert Botines, Onana's agent, told Calciomercato. 'Towards April, many inquired about the player.
'Tottenham have asked for information. Chelsea have had a very strong interest. There were meetings in London and Chelsea also met with Inter, but ten Hag was key.
'We are looking forward to facing great managers like Guardiola and trying to win titles with Manchester United. We have a great desire to excel.'
Onana is represented by Goal Management, an international career management agency owned by Botines. They also look after Hector Bellerin and Kiko Femenia.
Though Spurs searched for a long-term replacement for Hugo Lloris, and Chelsea sought somebody to challenge Kepa Arrizabalaga for the gloves, they were unable to snatch Onana.
The Cameroonian custodian chose to join former boss ten Hag, who he knows will embrace and facilitate his risk-taking approach to the game.
While at Ajax, they won three Eredivisie titles and two KNVB Cups together.