Gerrard is quitting Liverpool at the end of the season for MLS side LA Galaxy after deciding against penning a new deal at Anfield.

Mourinho is a big fan of the Reds legend, and came close to signing him for Chelsea in 2005 before Gerrard completed a last-minute u-turn and decided to stay on Merseyside.

The Portuguese revealed last night that's he's sad to see the midfielder leaving the English game.

"I think he has more than enough quality to play in the Premier League. In spite (of the fact) he's my opponent, I feel sorry that he's leaving," he said.

FAVOURITE: Mourinho is a fan of Liverpool skipper Gerrard [REUTERS]

"I'm not happy he leaves. I would love the Premier League to keep always the best players.

And now Mourinho has even cheekily suggested he could make another bid to bring the player to Stamford Bridge on a loan deal in 12 months time.

When the Chelsea boss was asked if he could persuade Gerrard to stay in English football, Mourinho told the BBC: "Or to get him on loan."