Roma legend Daniele De Rossi has revealed that he was put off signing for Manchester United due to the strength of their midfield.

While De Rossi recently retired after a brief spell at Boca Juniors, the Italian spent the bulk of his career at Roma, making 616 appearances in all competitions.

Although De Rossi has acknowledged a fondness for Man United, the 36-year-old feels that the quality of Roy Keane and Paul Scholes would have kept him out of the starting lineup.

Speaking to Sky Sport Italia, De Rossi said: "Since I was a child I have loved United. It was the right choice that I didn't go to Manchester because there was Keane and Scholes, incredible players."

De Rossi was part of the Italy squad which won the World Cup in 2006.