According to Metro, Juventus legend Andrea Pirlo was close to sealing a move to Chelsea in 2009, after the Italian maestro revealed details about the potential move in his autobiography.

Chelsea have used multiple managers since Jose Mourinho’s first successful spell at the club, and Carlo Ancelotti was in charge of proceedings in 2009. During this period, the manager wanted to bring experienced players on board, and had the funds available from Roman Abramovich. Legends Kaka and Pirlo were key to AC Milan’s midfield setup, but both were rumoured to be leaving in what would have been termed a clear out. Kaka was the first to leave, when Real Madrid signed him on a record fee, and Pirlo was also in discussions with multiple clubs over the possibility of a move.

Ancelotti’s presence at Chelsea was the game changing factor, and Pirlo had agreed a deal in principle over a move to Stamford Bridge. However, it was a conversation with Milan owner Silvio Berlusconi that affected the deal. Milan raised their demands over the transfer fee, and wanted to include Branislav Ivanovic as part of the deal. Chelsea did not intend on letting their right back leave, and the deal ended there.