10 Biggest Premier League Transfers That Nearly Happened

10. Rivaldo To Bolton Wanderers

In 2004, Bolton manager Sam Allardyce made an audacious move to try and bring World Cup winner and former Ballon D'or recipient Rivaldo to the Premier League. The club had existing pedigree in luring renowned names to the Reebok Stadium, including fellow World Cup winner Youri Djorkaeff, Jay-Jay Okocha, and Ivan Campo.

Hard to believe, but the transfer was not beyond the realms of possibility. Rivaldo was 32 years old and his peak was behind him. But despite his increasing age, this would be a real coup for a club of Bolton's stature.

Rivaldo's English representative, Peter Harrison, was quoted as saying: "With a transfer of this size you can never be 100% sure but Sam's made his offer and things are going very well." This came following the announcement that Rivaldo was assessing his options. Harrison continued by stating "I know for sure that Sam made a good impression on him. Everything's looking good."

Ultimately, Rivaldo would choose to join Greek side Olympiacos, robbing the English public the chance to see one of Brazil's finest grace the Premier League.