Klopp Details Liverpool's Extensive 2017 Pursuit of Kylian Mbappe

Jurgen Klopp, the former LiverpoolTeam·Liverpool manager, has offered new insights into the club's ambitious attempt to sign Kylian MbappePlayer·Kylian Mbappe in 2017, labeling it "the most expensive non-transfer we invested in." These details emerged in July 2026 while Klopp was serving as a pundit for MagentaTV during France's FIFA World CupCompetition·FIFA World Cup quarter-final match against MoroccoTeam·Morocco, where he was observed embracing Mbappe after the game.

Klopp recounted how LiverpoolTeam·Liverpool "really went all out" to secure Mbappe's signature when the forward was departing MonacoTeam·Monaco. The club's efforts included arranging a private jet from Blackpool to NiceTeam·Nice, where Mbappe and his entire family boarded. To maintain discretion, the aircraft reportedly flew in circles while discussions took place and refreshments were served, underscoring the lengths LiverpoolTeam·Liverpool was prepared to go.

Despite these extensive negotiations, Mbappe ultimately chose to join Paris Saint-GermainTeam·Paris Saint-Germain. His move to the French capital was initially a loan deal before becoming a permanent €180 million transfer. Mbappe himself confirmed in a 2022 interview that he had engaged in discussions with LiverpoolTeam·Liverpool, noting his mother's affinity for the club's distinctive red colours as a factor in the talks.

The 'what if' scenario of Mbappe at Anfield remains a compelling thought for many, especially given his subsequent trajectory. Now 27 years old, Kylian MbappePlayer·Kylian Mbappe currently plays as a forward for Real MadridTeam·Real Madrid, having joined the Spanish giants in 2024 after his tenure at Paris Saint-GermainTeam·Paris Saint-Germain. His form in the 2025/26 season has been exceptional, with 42 goals and 6 assists across 44 matches for Real MadridTeam·Real Madrid, earning him a Sofascore Rating of 7.68. He topped the La LigaCompetition·La Liga scoring charts with 24 goals from 30 matches and was the leading scorer in the UEFA Champions LeagueCompetition·Champions League with 15 goals.

Mbappe continues to be a pivotal figure for France in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World CupCompetition·FIFA World Cup, contributing significantly with goals and assists, and is widely considered a frontrunner for the Ballon d'Or. The revelation from Klopp highlights the strategic foresight of LiverpoolTeam·Liverpool's recruitment team at the time, even if the ultimate outcome saw Mbappe forge his path elsewhere. Meanwhile, Jurgen Klopp, who departed LiverpoolTeam·Liverpool in the summer of 2024, took on a role as Head of Global Football for Red BullTeam·Red Bull in January 2025. It has been widely reported that he is set to become Germany's new head coach, succeeding Julian NagelsmannCoach·Julian Nagelsmann, signaling his return to frontline management.