1. Rivaldo
Matthew Ashton/EMPICS SportBy far the most ridiculous player we nearly signed was the Brazilian legend, Rivaldo. In 2004, at the age of 32, Rivaldo was invited by Celtic to join them as a free agent at their pre-season tour of the US. This sparked extreme excitement that Celtic were about to sign one of the legends of the game. He may have been a little old, but honestly, how could you not try it if it was possible? It was rumoured that he would make his official debut against Chelsea during the tour. Incredibly it turned into a debacle; it wasn't a pretty end to the transfer rumour due to the overwhelming hype for the fans, and of course, a Brazilian footballer with a lack of dignity. Rivaldo ended up hitting out at Celtic for officially offering the pre-season tour as trial matches for him. Martin O'Neill was unsure of Rivaldo's fitness, and just wanted to make sure that Celtic were going to get the most out of the probable high-wages they would have paid him. Rivaldo took offence; he couldn't believe a player of his stature had been offered a trial for a team that he believed he could walk into. He later joined Olympiacos and enjoyed brilliant 3 year spell with the Greeks, scoring 43 goals in 81 games for the club. It's difficult to know who's side to be on for this one, should we have just taken the gamble on his fitness? Was there anyone else you can think of that should have been on this list? Do you think Celtic's persistent trial policy has limited us somewhat? Or has it been sensible practice? Let us know in the comment section below.