Ruud van Nistelrooy’s time at Manchester United did not get off to the best start, with his initial transfer – which took place 20 years ago today – falling through.
The Dutchman spent five seasons at Old Trafford, scoring 150 goals in more than 200 appearances. It came after high-scoring seasons at PSV Eindhoven, winning the Eredivisie for two consecutive years with 73 goals.
After his second title in 2000, United stepped in for an initial offer of £18.5m to get van Nistelrooy’s signature, a British record at the time.
The English side had already been left frustrated by van Nistelrooy’s side four days earlier as they prematurely announced the deal.
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