The attacking midfielder almost moved to Merseyside
Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has revealed in his autobiography, ‘My Story’, that he tried to persuade Willian to come to Anfield.
The Brazilian international playmaker was just one of the many players that Gerrard attempted to lure to Anfield, alongside Real Madrid’s Toni Kroos.
However, the ex-England captain admitted it was tough to try and convince some of the shortlisted players, due to interest from other top European clubs.
In Willian’s case, the prospect of a potential move to Chelsea or Tottenham Hotspur shattered Liverpool’s hopes.
‘I always sent a text’
“I followed the usual routine when approaching a star player we wanted to sign. Instead of calling him directly I always sent a text. It seemed more respectful and allowed the player to read my message at a time when it suited him best. A cold call felt wrong,” insisted Gerrard.
“I slipped into the groove with Willian. I said hello and hoped he didn’t mind me contacting him directly. I stressed how much I admired him as a player and then, having mentioned that I knew Liverpool were speaking to his agent, I used the standard line ‘If you need to chat or ask any questions I’m available at any time’.
It was the opening move in a familiar game. The reply came in and the same old conversation started. Willian thanked me and he said the usual, along the lines of, ‘I’d love to play with you, Steven, blah-blah-blah, but there are other clubs who play in the Champions League I need to talk to as well’.”
He also added: “I knew Spurs and Chelsea were also very keen on Willian. So I answered him and said, of course, I understood. But I then went in with my sales pitch. ‘I think Liverpool would be a great move for you. The fans are amazing, the history is there and we’re building a good team. You could do something great here – and we’d love to have you’.”
It is now common knowledge that Willian picked a move to Chelsea over Liverpool and Spurs, due to the pull of Champions League football, possibility of winning trophies and an improved contract offer.
Despite this, Gerrard admits he wasn’t surprised by the 27-year old’s choice and ambition.
“I always tried to persuade with honesty and respect and never mentioned anything about the player’s financial situation or the contract he could expect from Liverpool,” said Gerrard.
“The next text from Willian was so obvious I could have written it for him even before I read it. He again said that it would be great to play in the same team as me but ‘I’m not sure Liverpool can give me the Champions League’. He went to Chelsea.”
