Joshua King admits his failed deadline day transfer to Manchester United would have been a ‘dream come true’ as he speaks for the first time about his close call to leaving Bournemouth.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer lined up the former United youth player on the final day of the January transfer window as he attempted to strengthen his attacking options.
However, King’s hopes for a surprise return to his boyhood club were dashed when the two teams’ appraisals of the Norwegian international differed significantly. United would later recruit Odion Ighalo.
King made his first appearance since the transfer window closed, coming off the bench in Bournemouth’s Premier League defeat to Sheffield United on Sunday.
Speaking after the game, King broke his silence on the possible transfer, telling TV2 that he hoped a deal could be reached because of his love for United.
“I don’t know just how close it was. “I need to monitor what I say,” King added.
“I had trust that it would happen. And it was a little difficult for me because I moved to England at the age of 16 to pursue my dream of playing for Manchester United.
“It did not [happen], so I made a choice and left. When you learn that you are connected to United and that a bid has been received, you remember how you felt as a 16-year-old.
“I’m not sure why it didn’t happen. I’m a Bournemouth player, and I like my time here. But I won’t lie; it was a dream come true.”
King reiterated, however, that he is still committed to Bournemouth, who are just two points above the relegation zone following their defeat in Sheffield.
“That did not happen, and I’m going to offer everything to Bournemouth as long as I’m with this club,” he stated.
“The coach [Eddie Howe] was absolutely excellent with me during those days and was extremely helpful. I respect how he treated me during the brief incident.
“So I simply have to keep working hard to assist the team get out of this mess.”
Personally, I believe King is a good striker and would be a valuable addition to the squad. People want to see great names; I want to see guys who are talented and willing to give their all for the team. There’s a tremendous difference. We don’t want money seekers; we want players that bleed United and are enthusiastic about the club, which is how Sir Alex established his success.
