Milan Baros has claimed he was close to joining Chelsea before
making the switch to Lyon.
The Czech Republic international left Aston Villa for Lyon on
Monday to link up again with former Liverpool boss Gerard
Houllier.
Baros claims he was sounded out about a move to Chelsea by Jose
Mourinho after the Premiership meeting between the two sides on
January 2.
However, the move broke down because of Shaun Wright-Phillips'
reluctance to move to Villa in a swap deal.
"I agreed [to the move] with Chelsea. It was practically a finished
thing," Baros told Czech daily Sport.
"Everything broke down over the fact Wright-Phillips did not want
to go to Aston Villa.
"And coach [Martin] O´Neill told me that without any replacement,
he would not let me go as he would not have any strikers
left."
Baros admitted he was interested in a move to Chelsea after being
approached by Mourinho
"We just spoke about the match," added Baros.
"Just after the game in the tunnel he told me that he wanted me to
join the team and asked me if I was interested. I told him so. But
it did not happen in the end."
When asked if he was sorry the move did not come off, Baros
replied: "I would be sorry if I went to a worse club, but now I am
at Lyon."
Baros also aimed a swipe at Villa saying he was happy he had left
the club after struggling to find his best form during his time at
Villa Park.
"I was injured, the club fought against relegation in the first
season," said Baros."They are close to the bottom again.
"This does not help an individual and it is difficult to shine. And
we did not play in Europe.
"I do not want to make excuses, Aston Villa was not a good contract
for me and I am glad it is over."