5. Willian to Tottenham Hotspur or Liverpool
Due to financial problems at Anzhi Makhachkala, Willian was widely understood to be up for sale in the summer, and was first linked with Liverpool.
That fell through due to reasons the incredibly subtle Brendan Rodgers would not disclose.
“It’s disappointing because this was a player who would have been perfect for us,” said the Liverpool boss in August.
“It wasn’t a football [decision] and I don’t really want to go into it… that’s for us as a club really.
“The bottom line is he hasn’t come here for whatever reason and we move on.
“The club has pushed financially as hard as they felt they could but it wasn’t to be.”
Willian was then on the verge of signing for Tottenham Hotspur after passing a medical with the north London club, and even entered discussions over a five year contract.
“I can’t really confirm anything regarding Willian,” said Andre Villas-Boas at the time. “There is interest in the player and there have been conversations.
Both Liverpool and Spurs could certainly have used a player of Willian’s talents.
Liverpool have played Jordan Henderson as their most attacking midfielder at times, while Tottenham’s struggles in creative areas are well documented too.
In the end though, Willian signed for Chelsea, and is not part of the club’s first choice attacking midfield.
At least the seats on the bench look comfortable.
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