Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has claimed that the press were wrong about the club's reported interest in Barcelona winger Pedro.
The Spaniard was heavily linked with a switch to Old Trafford, but in a dramatic turn, the 28-year-old signed for Chelsea on Thursday.
In this morning's press conference, the Dutchman attempted to clarify the situation, suggesting that United pulled out of the deal.
"I think when we wanted Pedro it was not any problem because there was a clause in his contract so it was an easy contract," Van Gaal told reporters. "You can write what you want but we cannot say what we want, that is the difference. I have the responsibility of the interest of my club, of my players and I cannot say too much.
"When you ask me 'is Pedro fitting in the profile?' I cannot lie, and I say yes but I did not say we are interested in the player, that's the difference. But you bring it that I'm interested. People have to know that what is writing in the papers is not true because you cannot know.
"Only the players know and the clubs know. Also, Barcelona protect their interests and I have read that Barcelona didn't want to let him go so you should ask Barcelona how it is allowed to happen."
Van Gaal also defended the club's executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward, who has faced criticism in the past for failing to get deals over the line.
Danielle Joynson
