10 Biggest Dodged Bullets In Chelsea Transfer History

6. Alexandre Pato

Pato was a huge deal at AC Milan, scoring 51 goals in 117 appearances and looking set to become the next major Brazilian superstar. Having had the chance to sign him prior to his departure to Milan, Chelsea must have been cursing under their breath. The deal was supposedly very close to being done in 2007, but the Blues refused to insert the ambitious youth into their first team squad, instead wanting him to spend a couple of years out on loan to prove himself first. Pato wasn't having any of that nonsenseand didn't appreciate the lack of confidence, so instead packed his bags for Milan. After spending six months twiddling his thumbs due to FIFA regulations preventing non-EU players under the age of 18 playing in competitive matches, he finally made his debut in January 2008, scoring against Napoli in a 5-2 victory. His scoring record only grew more impressive over time and Chelsea were linked with him again in the summer of 2009. Despite the player suggesting he wouldn't be opposed to listening to an offer, Milan rebuffed all interest. Pato's next season saw him continuing to score goals aplenty, but also spend an increasing amount of time on the treatment table. Despite this, he enjoyed two more positive seasons before his injuries really started catching up with him, badly affecting his form and eventually seeing him move back to Brazil with Corinthians and later on loan at Sao Paolo. Chelsea would undoubtedly have signed a hugely talented player had they picked him up ahead of Milan, but given his frail physique, he probably would've crumbled even quicker in the aggressive football of the Premier League than the comparatively composed Serie A.