New Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag reportedly tried to convince Nemanja Matic to remain at Old Trafford.
The 33-year-old - who left United at the end of his contract in June - reunited with Jose Mourinho for the third time in his career after signing for Roma.
However, according to the Daily Mail, Ten Hag was keen for the midfielder to sign a new contract at Old Trafford.
The United boss was reportedly impressed by Matic's commanding presence in the squad and felt that he was a positive influence on the rest of the dressing room.
Despite Ten Hag's best efforts, Matic opted to leave United and put pen to paper on one year deal with Mourinho's side.
After signing for United from Chelsea in 2017, Matic went on to make 188 appearances for the club.
