I need to be his best friend, how?

I am male, 29 years old - I had a close friend that died before 3 years, he was the best friend ever.
These days I know a friend that is 24 years old, I am interested to make him my close friend - and seems he is too.
But the problem is that he is so ambiguous so mysterious. I was honest and told him that I want to make a very good relation with you and have you as my best friend - he said I gave up from friendships and need to rest - seems that he had a bad experience with friends.

I want him to be my friend as I always call him - Text Message him, invite him to dinner lunch or anything, but actually he always be normal.

I told him shall I try to be your best friend - he replied try but with no promises from my side.

My Question is how can I make him interested more, how can I be his best friend, I need to know please.

Thanks for taking the time to read and answer my question.