Why Chelsea failed to sign Alisson Becker from Roma despite advanced talks with Brazilian
Fran Lampard’s side were in advanced negotiations to sign the then Roma’s shot stopper Alisson Becker in 2018 but missed his services to Liverpool after delaying over the transfer.
Liverpool played it smart on Chelsea to splashed out the £67m price tag placed on Alisson to make him the world record goalkeeper at that time.
Since the signing, Liverpool have been repaid, with the Brazilian been regarded as one of the best stoppers in the world.
Chelsea were reportedly in advanced talks to sign Alisson, who according to reports was ready to switch camp for Stamford Bridge.
But the West London missed their opportunity to complete the transfers as they were busy trying to convince Thibaut Courtois to stay at Stamford Bridge at a moment the Belgian wanted away to join Real Madrid according to The Athletic.
Courtois told Chelsea bosses his decision to join the Los Blancos, however, the Chelsea hierarchy led by Director Marina Granovskaia were convincing Courtois to stay put before the former keeper snubbed the Stamford Bridge side for Madrid.
This Chelsea action gave way for Liverpool to enter into the race for Alisson and finally swooped the former Roma goalkeeper.
Chelsea turned attention to Athletic Bilbao’s Kepa Arrizabalaga later, with the young Spaniard one of the only other suitable stoppers on the market at the time.
Alisson is not only regarded as one of the best keepers in the world, but has also lifted the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA Club World Cup, and on the verge of lifting the EPL title this season.
