Lucas Leiva has revealed Everton came close to signing him before he agreed a move to Liverpool.

The former Gremio midfielder told LFC Magazine: "I was aware of interest from Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan and also Everton.

"There was a lot of talk from other clubs but I always got the feeling Liverpool were most interested in me.

"When I heard Liverpool were interested I said 'Yes' straight away. The club has won so many things - everyone in Brazil knows about them."

Leiva is excited to be playing alongside Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard.

"I love watching Steven Gerrard play," the 20-year-old added. "I have been watching him a lot, picking up a few things and I am learning from him already.

"When my English improves I hope to be able to talk with him more and ask for tips on what to do in different situations on the pitch.

"You can learn a lot from coaches in training but even more from someone like Gerrard, who has been there and done it on such a consistent basis."