Berbatov never considered City

Bulgarian insists money was not a factor

By Lewis Rutledge   Last updated: 3rd September 2008

Berbatov Dimitar Manchester United

Berbatov: Chose United

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Dimitar Berbatov has insisted that it was always his goal to secure a transfer to Manchester United.

The Bulgarian striker was linked with a move to Old Trafford all summer but on transfer deadline day it briefly looked as though he could join Manchester City.

Tottenham accepted an offer from City before United agreed a £30.75million deal for his services.

Berbatov admits he was flattered by City's interest but only ever wanted to link up with Sir Alex Ferguson's Premier League champions.

"I have very big respect for the offer of Manchester City," said Berbatov.

"Because of it, the transfer to Manchester United was held up for three or four hours.

"But for me there was only one goal, to wear the red shirt of United.

"If I wanted to play for the money, I would accept the Manchester City offer or one from Chelsea, but no, I want to play for the biggest club in the world and that's why I am here."

The new Cantona

Berbatov has been backed to make a major impact at United by new team-mate Ryan Giggs.

The Welshman believes that Berbatov can inspire United in the same way that Eric Cantona did over a decade ago.

"He plays in a very similar position to Eric, and he has a similar physique," Giggs said in the Daily Star.

"And I don't think he'll be intimidated by the price tag or by coming to United."

Giggs is convinced that Berbatov has the right attitude to cope with the pressure of playing for United.

He said: "Manchester United centre forwards, or creative players, have to have that sort of mentality - the type who thinks if he does miss a chance, he'll put the next one away."