Former Real Madrid midfielder Zinedine Zidane has admitted that he twice tried to convince the La Liga giants to sign Steven Gerrard.
The Liverpool talisman announced on Friday that he will leave Anfield at the end of the season, after 26 years with the club.
Zidane told The Daily Mail: "I have said in the past that at his peak, [Gerrard] was the best in the world.
"I think it was the summer of 2004 I was having a conversation with Florentino [Perez] and I told him I wanted him to partner me in midfield for Madrid.
"I know the club tried twice but he wouldn't leave Liverpool. Not many players turn down Real Madrid but I think that tells you a lot about the loyalty of the man."
Gerrard is expected to join an MLS club in the summer, with LA Galaxy, New York Red Bulls and New York City FC said to be vying for his signature.
