Dutch side FC Twente turned down the chance to sign Diego Costa from Atletico Madrid in 2009, according to Studio Voetbal.
The Brazilian-born Spanish international joined Atletico in 2006 from Portuguese side Braga but failed to make his mark during his early time in the Spanish capital.
Having been loaned out to Rayo Valladolid, Costa was hauled back into the Atleti side under Diego Simeone and went on to help the Vicente Calderon outfit to a La Liga title and Champions League runners-up place.
However, things could have been different had he joined Twente in 2009 but the Dutch side doubted his ability going forward.
The forward netted 36 goals in 52 games for Atletico last season and has already scored 18 times for Chelsea this season.