Barcelona forward Neymar has admitted that preliminary negotiations were held regarding a potential move to Manchester United over the summer.

The Brazil captain confirmed that talks did take place between United and his representatives but that no agreement could be reached and an offer was not made to Barcelona.

Despite the fact that reports suggesting he would leave the Catalan club were widely ridiculed, Neymar’s agent, Pini Zahavi, did visit Old Trafford to watch United’s goalless draw with Newcastle during the final days of the transfer window.

"We had conversations, but there was nothing concrete,” Neymar told ESPN Brasil.

"I heard that there were offers, but none made it to me.”

 Neymar’s contract with Barcelona reportedly stipulates that a new deal must be agreed this season but he has said he is happy at the club and aspiring to elevate himself to the standards of La Liga stars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

"I want to keep giving my all and evolve season to season,” he continued.

"I hope I will be on the Ballon d'Or podium this year."
Meanwhile, Neymar’s compatriot Alexandre Pato has also confirmed that United attempted to sign him in a last-ditch bid to beat the transfer deadline.

"Two hours before [the British window closed]." he told SporTV in Brazil.

"I had a very good offer from Manchester United.”

The 26-year-old is currently on loan at Sao Paulo having moved to Corinthians in Brazil in 2013 after six seasons with AC Milan.

-

Follow Joy Sports on Twitter: @Joy997FM. Our hashtag is #JoySports