Porto defender Eliaquim Mangala has
told a Portuguese newspaper that Manchester City made an approach for
his services prior to Monday's transfer deadline.
The France international spent much of the summer window being linked with big-money moves to some of Europe's top clubs.
Manchester United, Chelsea, Barcelona and City were all credited with holding an interest in the 22-year-old centre-half.
Porto, though, are understandably reluctant to discuss a deal, having been the ones to spot Mangala's potential during his time at Standard Liege.
They intend to be the ones to benefit from his considerable talent and made it clear to City that no negotiations would be held when the Premier League outfit came calling.
Mangala is happy to leave his fate in the hands of his current employers and is looking forward to what he hopes will be another productive campaign in Portugal.
"Manchester City were interested a few days ago, but nothing was ever close," he told A Bola.
"I'm a Porto player and I feel good here. I have no problem with this issue.
"I am fine here and focused on what we can do this season."