Ghana international Emmanuel Agyemang Badu says he almost joined Ghana Premier League giants Hearts of Oak.

The midfielder moved from Berekum Arsenal to Kotoko on a loan deal despite interest from the Rainbow Club.

According to the Udinese star he was close in joining the Phobians but for a last minute persuasion from Kotoko officials.

“I have been a Kotoko fan, I love Kotoko, but growing up I really admired Hearts of Oak,” he told GHone TV.

“I watched they anytime and I love the character they show on the pitch even though I was a Kotoko fan.

“I almost joined Hearts of Oak from Berekum Arsenal, everything was set for me to join before Kotoko came.

“I met with Vincent Odotei and everything was agreed, I went back to Kumasi to prepare myself and then Kotoko captured me, their terms were good so I had to join them, that is how come I joined Kotoko but I almost signed for Hearts of Oak.”

The Italy-based midfielder has been one of the consistent Black Stars players until recently where he missed out on an invitation for the team’s Cup of Nations qualifier against Ethiopia.