Liverpool transfer targets rejected Steven Gerrard texts as moves fell apart
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The former Liverpool captain was placed in an 'unofficial role' to try and secure transfer targetsSteven Gerrard attempted to lure Willian and Toni Kroos to Liverpool during his time as club captain. In his 2015 autobiography, titled 'My Story', the former Red disclosed his 'unofficial role' involved attempting to secure deals for transfer targets.However, he was refused by both Kroos and Willian on different occasions.
Reflecting on his pursuit of the Brazilian before his arrival at Stamford Bridge, Gerrard said: "I had an unofficial role at the club, trying to persuade some great players to join Liverpool."In 2013, the latest player in our sights was Willian, the Brazilian midfielder. 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.' However, he replied with: 'I'm not sure Liverpool can win me the Champions League.'"The midfielder ultimately opted for Chelsea in a £30million deal to play under Jose Mourinho, spending seven years at Stamford Bridge.
Gerrard explained: "We [Gerrard and then manager Brendan Rodgers] both admired Toni Kroos immensely."I knew Real Madrid were gearing up to make Bayern Munich an offer and so I felt a bit awkward when I texted Kroos. He subsequently hung up his boots following Euro 2024, having cemented his place as arguably one of the most celebrated midfielders of his generation.Despite missing out on several transfer targets, Liverpool still thrived considerably under Gerrard's captaincy during his time at the club.Sky Sports, HBO Max, Netflix and Disney+ with Ultimate TV packageThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it.