Everton decided against a move for a 17-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo in 2002 for £2million, as they were keen to put full confidence in an upcoming star of their own - Wayne Rooney.
According to 'Messi vs Ronaldo' - a new book - David Moyes' side were one of a number of European outfits who had an opportunity to sign the future five-time Ballon d'Or winner, only to decide against taking the risk on a player as yet untested.
Ronaldo went on to stay at Sporting for one more year before eventually making his switch to the Premier League, joining Manchester United and embarking on one of the most successful careers in football history.