The Corinthians striker, currently on loan at Sao Paulo, was also linked with Premier League pair Sunderland and Tottenham.
But it appears United were closest to signing the Brazil international on transfer deadline day after already signing Anthony Martial from Monaco for £36m.
The Red Devils were in the market for strikers after offloading Robin van Persie, Javier Hernandez and Radamel Falcao.
Pato claims United made a 'really good offer', but admits he was unaware of their approach until after the window had already shut.
GETTY
Alexandre Pato claims Manchester United wanted him on transfer deadline day
GETTY
Manchester United signed Anthony Martial for £36m
"I won’t lie: two hours before the deadline I had a really good offer from Manchester United,” the 26-year-old revealed.
"I was expecting it, but actually only found out about it afterwards."
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