Steven Gerrard recalls texting world class stars for Liverpool transfers | OneFootball

Steven Gerrard’s Unusual Role in Liverpool’s Transfer Pursuits

For all his brilliance in a Liverpool shirt, Steven Gerrard’s career contained moments that went far beyond the pitch. As captain, he was not only a leader in matches but sometimes, unexpectedly, part of the club’s recruitment strategy.

In an era before Liverpool’s recent resurgence under Jürgen Klopp and now Arne Slot, the club did not always have the pulling power to attract the world’s elite. Even Gerrard — one of the greatest to ever play for Liverpool — found himself in awkward situations when trying to lure top talent to Anfield.

Brendan Rodgers’ Bold Request to Contact Toni Kroos

Under Brendan Rodgers, Liverpool came close to glory in 2014 but often struggled to secure marquee signings. In a bid to change that, Rodgers turned to his captain for help. Gerrard later admitted:

“Our target in 2014 was ridiculously optimistic and Brendan even asked me to take a crack at trying to talk Toni Kroos into signing for Liverpool.

We both admired Kroos immensely. I knew Real Madrid were gearing up to make Bayern Munich an offer and so I felt a bit awkward when I texted Kroos. The German was on his way to winning the World Cup with his country and Real were the champions of Europe. But God loves a trier, and so I gave it a whirl.”

The midfielder was polite in his response, but unsurprisingly, he joined Real Madrid. Gerrard added:

“Some of the best footballers in the world can also be the most respectful. Kroos didn’t make me feel like I was a total idiot… We had a nice little exchange of texts and I said well done and good luck.”

Willian and the Familiar Transfer Disappointment

Kroos was not the only player Gerrard was asked to contact. A year earlier, the Liverpool icon had also sent a message to Willian, then one of Europe’s most sought-after young players at Anzhi Makhachkala.

Photo: IMAGO

“I followed the usual routine when approaching a star player… I said hello and hoped he didn’t mind me contacting him directly… I stressed how much I admired him as a player… ‘If you need to chat or ask any questions I’m available at any time.’”

Willian’s response was respectful but predictable — he had Champions League offers to consider. In the end, he chose Chelsea.

What These Stories Reveal About Liverpool Then and Now

These tales underline the gap between Liverpool’s aspirations in the early 2010s and their reality. Even with Steven Gerrard leading the charge, elite players often looked elsewhere. Today, however, Liverpool’s stature ensures that the world’s best are the ones sending messages, not the other way around.