Corinthians president Duilio Monteiro Alves has revealed that his club recently made an enquiry for Manchester United centre-forward Edinson Cavani.
The Uruguay international's contract at Old Trafford is due to expire this summer, and he was strongly linked with a move away from the club early in the January transfer window.
Cavani will now remain with the Red Devils for the rest of the season, though, following recent discussions with the club's interim head coach Ralf Rangnick.
Corinthians president Alves told Globo Esporte that he attempted to bring the striker to the club but was unsuccessful in his pursuit.
"I have to look for the best in the world," said Alves. "I may not be able to, but I will try. I admitted that I went after Cavani and became a laughing stock.
"I said that I went after Neymar and became a laughing stock. Corinthians is much bigger than these guys. My obligation is to go after the best. Who thought Willian would be here?"
The 34-year-old has scored twice and registered one assist in 14 appearances for Man United during the 2021-22 campaign, with both of his goals coming in the Premier League.
Matt Law
