Manchester United opted to sign Senne Lammens instead of pursuing Gianluigi Donnarumma because the Champions League winner would have demanded a huge salary, according to reports. The Red Devils prised Lammens away from Royal Antwerp on transfer deadline day as they shelled out just over £18million to secure his services, with Donnarumma joining Manchester City in a £26m deal instead.

United were in the market for a new goalkeeper as they attempted to solve their woes in between the sticks. Andre Onana has lost his place as the Red Devils' first-choice keeper, with Altay Bayindir starting his side's first three Premier League matches of the campaign. Both keepers have been guilty of making errors this term, with Onana at fault for both of Grimsby's goals when United were dumped out of the Carabao Cup by the League Two outfit last month.

Donnarumma was available to sign this summer after astonishingly falling behind Lucas Chevalier in the pecking order at Paris Saint-Germain.

United reportedly considered the Italian as well as Lammens and Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez.

According to Sky Sports, Martinez would have wanted a huge salary, which would have left little value in any future fee United could have demanded if they sold him.

And the outlet have claimed the same reasoning explains why the 13-time Premier League champions didn't rival Manchester City for the signature of Donnarumma.

Donnarumma didn't appear to be losing any sleep over United's refusal to pursue him after he put pen-to-paper on a deal at the Etihad Stadium as the 26-year-old explained: "To have signed for Manchester City is such a special and proud moment for me.

"I am joining a squad packed with world-class talent and a team led by one of the greatest managers in the history of football in Pep Guardiola. This is a club every player in world football would love to join.

"I have admired watching Manchester City for many years - so to now be able to play for the club is a huge honour and a privilege.

"I cannot wait to meet my new team-mates, the staff and the fans. Playing at the Etihad Stadium will be very, very special for me.

"I am very excited for what lies ahead and can promise that I will give absolutely everything to try and help the club achieve even more success."

Meanwhile, City director of football Hugo Viana added: "Gianluigi's pedigree, quality and record speaks for itself, and we are all absolutely thrilled he has joined us here at City."