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Samir Nasri has sensationally claimed that he came close to joining Manchester United before his move to City.

The French midfielder made the £25m switch to the Blues from Arsenal in the summer of 2011, and has since played a crucial role in two Premier League title wins and a League Cup victory.

However, he could have been lining up at Old Trafford instead had Sir Alex Ferguson had his way.

Speaking to BeIn Sports, Nasri has revealed that he met with the former Reds boss over a potential move, but was asked to "go to war" with Arsenal to force a transfer.

And he says that City's desire to land him played a crucial role in his decision to swap the Emirates for the Etihad.

"We met with Sir Alex in Paris, in a hidden place, out of sight, so as not to fuel the rumours,” he told BeIn Sports.

“But there was one thing that was a problem; I was asked to go to war with Arsenal to be able to join. I could not see myself doing it, especially with Arsene Wenger.

“After Man City showed their interest. Mancini called me every day during the holidays. I then decided that they really wanted me.”