Did Argentina striker Julian Alvarez almost join Manchester United?

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Argentina sensation Julian Alvarez, who is currently flying at Manchester City could have joined Manchester United.

The 22-year old shone for Lionel Messi and Co. in their 3-0 victory against Croatia in the World Cup semi-final.

The former River Plate gem has shone in Qatar, scoring 4 goals at the tournament since being brought into the side.

While Lautaro Martinez started the World Cup as Argentina’s main striker, Julian Alvarez usurped him.

And as they say, the rest is history.

Against Croatia, Alvarez was a menace from start to finish.

For Lionel Messi’s opening strike via a penalty, the tireless No.9 latched onto an Enzo Fernandez pass, before driving with the ball and winning the spot-kick.

To make it 2-0, it was the youngster’s silky dribbling again followed by a masterful finish that doubled his nation’s side.

And for the last and final goal, Alvarez dispatched a breathtaking Messi pass with aplomb.

Was Julian Alvarez close to joining Manchester United?

The answer is yes.

Former Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick had admitted in May during a press conference (via GOAL) that the club had considered Julian Alvarez as a potential signing.

“The answer at the time was no, there was no player on the market who could really help us. [But] there were a few: [Luis] Diaz, who is now at Liverpool, Alvarez who will be at Manchester City in the summer and [Dusan] Vlahovic, who at the time was still at Fiorentina.”

Manchester United’s loss is Manchester City’s gain as they have struck gold with Julian Alvarez

While some may be jumping on the Julian Alvarez bandwagon during the World Cup, the gifted goalscorer has been an instant hit for Manchester City as well.

In just 8 starts for Pep Guardiola’s side this campaign, Alvarez has registered an impressive 6 goals and 3 assists in all competitions.

Manchester United must still have their head in their hands about letting such a gem join their bitter rivals, especially for a bargain £14.1 million fee.