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Chelsea rejected the chance to sign long-time Liverpool target Nabil Fekir, Lyon's president has claimed.

The French midfielder was close to signing for the Anfield club before he went on to win the World Cup with France.

Liverpool pulled out of a deal due to medical concerns and the 25-year-old decided to remain with the Ligue 1 club.

But Lyon chief Jean-Michel Aulas revealed the player was offered to Chelsea .

"In the beginning, when we thought about our summer transfer window and how to organise the future squad, we thought that he [Fekir] was practically gone," he said.

(Image: Getty Images Europe)

"That’s why we have been able to adapt things.

"We spoke with Chelsea representatives, and they had no interest at all in him.

"From then on, we realised we could change our plans [as he would stay]."

(Image: AFP)

Liverpool decided not to pursue an alternative to Fekir having already signed Naby Keita and Fabinho.

Jurgen Klopp also added £65million keeper Alisson to his squad and Liverpool have started the season well.

The Reds have won all three opening Premier League games with West Ham, Crystal Palace and Brighton succumbing to defeat.