Every year in the unpredictable world of the transfer market, a few reports and rumors emerge of moves that would have sent shock waves across Europe had they came to fruition. This what-if transfer move in particular is one that would have divided a fanbase.
When Paris Saint-Germain notified now-former defender Thiago Silva of its plans to not extend his contract, several teams had an interest in signing the defender on a free transfer deal. Among the clubs interested in acquiring Silva was a longtime rival of his: Olympique Lyonnais. In speaking to RMC Sport, Lyon sporting director Juninho admitted that he aspired to sign Silva in what would have been one of the most surprising transfer moves in French football history.
“I dreamed about it,” Juninho told RMC Sport. “I tried to reach him several times. I spoke a little with his agent at the beginning but I understood everything from after that it was impossible. For me, Thiago Silva is still one of the best defenders in the world, we saw it with the final he made.”
Juninho talked further on his failed attempt to sway Silva into signing with Lyon.
“I could tell him: play 22 games, stay two years with us and then maybe we’ll be able to find something for you here to start a new life,” Juninho said. “I thought about that and talked to President Aulas about it and telling him that such a project could perhaps be interesting for him, because he is passionate about football. But it was not possible for us.”
PSG supporters sure are glad to see Silva with Chelsea FC and not Lyon.
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