Jürgen Klopp has opened up about Liverpool’s extraordinary and relentless efforts to sign Kylian Mbappé back in 2017, describing the high-flying talks held aboard a private jet as the “most expensive non-transfer” in the English club’s history.
Europe’s elite clubs erupted into a bidding war for Mbappé following his spectacular breakthrough season with Monaco, where he brilliantly guided the French side to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals. Liverpool was at the very forefront of those desperate to secure the signature of the generational talent.
The Reds harbored genuine hope of sealing the blockbuster deal, heavily relying on the fact that Mbappé’s mother is a passionate Liverpool supporter. However, the forward ultimately declined a move to Anfield, opting instead to join Paris Saint-Germain.
Reflecting on the secret operation, Klopp shared:
“It was the most expensive non-transfer that we invested in at Liverpool. An entourage flew on a private jet from Blackpool to Nice to meet Mbappé. This jet literally had five rooms.”
The former Liverpool boss added with a laugh:
“Liverpool really pulled out all the stops. We just flew in circles over Nice, talked with the family, and had a delicious meal. We weren’t allowed to be seen by anyone.”
He concluded:
“We flew in circles—it was great—and then in the end, he went to Paris!”
Mbappé eventually joined Paris Saint-Germain that summer on an initial loan deal with a mandatory €180 million purchase option. After a historic run in the French capital, the superstar forward completed his long-awaited move to Real Madrid in 2024.
