Erik ten Hag was reportedly keen on bringing Danny Welbeck to Manchester United during the last transfer window.
The Dutchman was recently sacked from the head coach role at United following a run of four wins in 13 games.
The Athletic now reveal that the 54-year-old was keen on bringing Welbeck back at Old Trafford over the summer.
Ten Hag and the club gave a serious thought about replacing Anthony Martial with Welbeck, but a deal did not materialise.
With the various changes in the hierarchy, United eventually decided to pursue a young striker in Joshua Zirkzee.
Zirkzee had a perfect start as he scored the winner against Fulham. He came off the bench to win the game for United.
However, the 23-year-old has since struggled with his form and he is no longer a guaranteed starter in the league.
Rasmus Hojlund has been regularly preferred in recent weeks and he is expected to start versus Chelsea this weekend.
