Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo could easily have joined Liverpool ahead of Manchester United in 2003. The Daily Express says the 29-year-old linked up with the Red Devils in the same year from Sporting Lisbon for £12million, but was hoping to sign for their fierce Premier League rivals instead.
Gerard Houllier, who was Liverpool boss at the time, admitted in 2010 he turned down the chance to sign the mercurial forward, and the Kop faithful will be wondering how big an impact Ronaldo would have made had he plied his trade at Anfield.
A 19-year-old Ronaldo said at the time: "Liverpool are one of the best clubs in England and it would be a dream for any player to represent a club of such traditions.
"I will have to hope they make an offer that is good for both Sporting and myself.
"The English league is not one of my favourites, but it is very interesting. I think my way of playing can be reconciled in the Premiership. If a player has quality then he can play anywhere.
"Let's see how things turn out. I am going to continue working as hard as ever."
