Andre Onana’s agent disclosed that Tottenham and Chelsea inquired about his availability before he made the move to Old Trafford.
With David de Gea’s departure earlier this summer, Ten Hag recognized the need for a goalkeeper who is comfortable playing out from the back.
Eventually, he opted to bring Onana, whom he previously managed at Ajax, to Manchester – but the process wasn’t straightforward.
Both Tottenham and Chelsea were also interested in acquiring the services of the former Inter Milan stopper to address their goalkeeping issues.
Speaking to Calciomercato, Onana’s agent Albert Botines said: “It all started a few months ago. 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.”
Like United, Spurs saw their long-term number one, Hugo Lloris, leave the club after 11 years of service.
They eventually settled on Guglielmo Vicario with the Italian moving to north London from Empoli for a fee of around £17.2 million ($21.9m) earlier in the window.
Chelsea are yet to make any signings in the goalkeeping department despite the exit of Edouard Mendy to Saudi Arabia. Kepa Arrizabalaga looks set to be Mauricio Pochettino’s first-choice ‘keeper going into the season.
He’ll be looking to play himself into form ahead of the Premier League opener against Wolves on August 14.