Leeds United defender Sam Byram has now admitted that he had the chance to sign for Everton when he left the club back in 2016.
Byram was speaking to The Athletic in a long interview about his regret of not being promoted with Leeds in the past.
And when discussing his move from Leeds to West Ham United in 2016, Byram did reveal that he had considerable interest from Everton.
Byram said: “I’m not sure what I am allowed to say, but Massimo Cellino tried to convince me to sign a new contract on much worse terms.
“When West Ham and Everton at the time were interested, giving me the chance to play in the Premier League — whether you’re a Leeds fan or not, given the opportunity to live your dream, the top aspiration, most people if they’re honest would have taken the chance.”
Of course, Byram has now become an integral part of this Leeds’ team in his second spell.
And given Leeds’ recent form, the defender must now be convinced that the club can return at the first time of asking.
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Byram didn’t necessarily have a poor time at West Ham by any means, but when talking about his Leeds regret, some may wonder if the defender also wishes he’d tried a spell at Goodison Park.
Sam Byram admits he could have signed for Everton when leaving Leeds in 2016
Byram cost West Ham £4m when he signed from Leeds.
And having been available on a free transfer this summer, it didn’t always seem a foregone conclusion that Leeds would even offer Byram a contract.
The defender ultimately managed to convince Daniel Farke of his quality in pre-season, something that has proved to be an excellent decision.
And although was replaced by Junior Firpo when injured against Plymouth Argyle, the defender can now keep the Spaniard out on merit.
Moreover, rather than just being a utility man, Byram has become integral for Leeds.
And despite their strong recent form, it doesn’t seem as if Leeds will take the January transfer window lightly.
The club are already being linked with one winger Jurgen Klopp is a huge fan of.
And although Byram had Premier League chances with West Ham and Everton, it would brilliant to see him promoted back to the top flight with Leeds.