Portugal legend Nuno Gomes has explained how close he was to joining Liverpool in 2001.
The Reds made an approach to Fiorentina for the then 25-year-old striker, but he opted to stay in the Serie A having only just switched from Benfica.
His stint in Italy lasted two years, however, before the former frontman returned to Portugal.
Gomes scored 166 goals in two separate spells at Benfica and netted the winner against England in a 3-2 comeback at Euro 200 while also playing a major role in the Portugal teams that knocked the Three Lions out of Euro 2004 and World Cup 2006.
"I was close to Liverpool once, while I was playing for Fiorentina," Gomes told the Mirror.
"But at that time, in 2001, the offer came right in the middle of my first season in Italy and I was enjoying it - the Serie A was very strong at the time.
"So in the end it didn't happen.
"There were also some talks with Tottenham and West Ham later, but nothing materialised."
Back in September 2001, the ECHO ran a story about Liverpool's approach over Gomes.
It read: "Portuguese striker Nuno Gomes claims he's received an approach from Liverpool.
"Boss Gerard Houllier revealed yesterday he was tracking the 25-year-old Fiorentina star, but the Reds today insisted they haven't taken the interest further.
"Crippling debts at the Italian club may force top players to leave, and Gomes is sure to have many managers.
"Gomes said he knew of Liverpool's interest, although Manchester United are also in the hunt for his signature.
"He said: 'No-one has spoken to me directly but I know Liverpool have spoken to people close to me. Liverpool are a great club, I admire Gerard Houllier and it's a great honour interested in him. to be linked with them.'"
