The Belgian's representative insists his client was high on Jose Mourinho's shortlist this summer - a list which also included N'Golo Kante
Axel Witsel turned down the opportunity to join Manchester United because he would be appreciated more at Borussia Dortmund, according to his agent Paul Stefani.
The midfielder has agreed to join the Bundesliga side in a €20 million (£18m/$23m) move this summer after just one season in China.
And transfer broker Stefani has revealed that the midfielder had his choice of top leagues in Europe once his low release clause and desire to leave Tianjin was revealed.