Christian Pulisic turned down a transfer move to Manchester United because of Jose Mourinho, according to his former manager.
The American signed for Chelsea in the January window in a £58million deal but was loaned straight back to Borussia Dortmund until the end of last campaign.
The 20-year-old has made a bright start to his career at Stamford Bridge and looks likely to play a key role under Frank Lampard.
But it turns out the forward could have signed for the Red Devils before his move to Chelsea, according to The Telegraph.
Robin Walker coached Pulisic as a youngster at non-League yeam Brackley Town and made the stunning revelation.
He said: “I’m a Chelsea fan, I grew up in London supporting them. When I was in Dortmund last year, I told him that he had to come.
“He wouldn’t go to Manchester United because of Jose Mourinho. His father couldn’t stand Mourinho because he didn’t promote young players.
“It was at that point I asked, ‘What about London? That’s where it’s at.’
“I was trying to sell the city. His agent agreed, saying, ‘When you make these decisions, it’s all about investment and property’. I was delighted that he did sign.”
Jose Mourinho was sacked by Manchester United in December and was replaced by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who is driving a policy of youth.
The Red devils drew 1-1 at Wolves last night, with new young signings Daniel James and Aaron Wan-Bissaka both starting the match.
The Blues were held by the same scoreline at home to Leicester City on Sunday, with Pulisic starting his first Premier League game for the club.
