10 Failed Transfers That Would Have Changed English Football

6. Roy Keane To Blackburn Rovers

Roy Keane was the snarling box-to-box midfield general who led Alex Ferguson's Manchester United to seven Premier League titles, four FA Cups and a Champions League during his time at Old Trafford. Known for his hardman image, work ethic and rough tackling, the Irishman also had an underrated eye for a pass and could finish. He was much more than an angry caricature. Though he identity is forever entwined with the club where he spent the most glorious years of his career, Keane's move to Old Trafford in time for the 1993/94 season came within a hair's breadth of not happening at all. In the 1992/93 season, Keane renegotiated his contract with struggling Nottingham Forest to include a relegation release clause. He performed well for Brian Clough's side but could not prevent their relegation. Blackburn Rovers were the first Premier League club to make their interest concrete, agreeing a £4m fee with Forest and verbally agreeing a contract with the man himself. The deal was agreed on a Friday, but unable to obtain the necessary paperwork to force the move through on the day, Rovers boss Kenny Dalglish and Keane agreed to meet on the Monday to officially confirm the transfer. Ever the opportunist, Alex Ferguson saw an opportunity in the unforseen delay. He called Keane and, because his move to Rovers had not been officially confirmed, was able to convince him to move to Old Trafford instead of Ewood Park. Ferguson, unlike his fellow Scot, had the paperwork ready, and the transfer of Keane to Manchester United was confirmed on the Saturday. Dalglish, perhaps understandably, was livid. Ferguson and Keane weren't concerned, and together led Manchester United through an incredibly successful period. You have to wonder how much more Blackburn could have won with Keane's never-say-die presence driving them on from the centre of the park.