Mourinho says he tried to sign Steven Gerrard for three clubs

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has revealed he attempted to sign Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard during his time in charge of the Blues, Inter Milan and Real Madrid.

The 34-year-old midfielder has been loyal to his boyhood club over the years in despite of interest from Europe’s leading clubs and the Blues’ boss has now confirmed that he was a keen admirer of the former England skipper:

Mourinho on Gerrard: “I tried to bring him to Chelsea, tried to bring him to Inter, tried to bring him to Real Madrid.”  

Meanwhile Mourinho’s side host Brendan Rodgers’ men this weekend on the back of claiming the Premier League crown against Crystal Palace last Sunday.

It will likely be the last time Mourinho and Gerrard’s paths cross, with the former off to play in the MLS for LA Galaxy next season.

Gerrard will not have the fondest of memories of playing against the former Madrid coach’s sides, his defining slip in last campaign’s defeat to Mourinho’s men all-but cost his side the chance of claim the club’s first title in 25 years.

The Reds’ legend has failed to replicate his form since that game. This term, he has only made 26 appearances compared to last term, where he took part in 34 league matches.

Despite that, he has still one of the team’s most influential players at Anfield and is the joint-top scorer with seven goals.

Gerrard has completed 85% of his passes this season.

Gerrard will be hoping to leave the club on a high. They trail fierce rivals Manchester United, who occupy the final Champions League place, with only three games remaining but given the Red Devils’ poor form, they may fancy clawing them back.