Klopp reveals failed private jet bid to sign Mbappe for Liverpool

Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has revealed extraordinary details of the club's failed attempt to sign Kylian Mbappe from Monaco in 2017, describing it as the "most expensive non-transfer" in Liverpool's history.

Speaking on German broadcaster Magenta TV while covering the FIFA World Cup, Klopp recalled the elaborate efforts Liverpool made to convince the then-teenage French forward and his family to choose Anfield over Paris Saint-Germain.

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"It was before he went to Paris. That was roughly €500 million, the most expensive non-transfer we've ever made," Klopp said.

Liverpool were among several European heavyweights pursuing Mbappe after his breakthrough 2016-17 campaign with Monaco, when the forward helped the Ligue 1 club reach the UEFA Champions League semi-finals and win the French league title.

Klopp revealed that Liverpool arranged a highly discreet meeting with Mbappe and his family aboard a private jet to avoid attracting public attention.

"We flew from Blackpool to Nice. In Nice, the whole Mbappe family boarded a private jet with five cabins. Then we flew around in circles and had a delicious meal. We weren't allowed to be seen. It was great – and then he went to Paris," he said.

According to Klopp, the operation involved significant logistical planning as Liverpool sought to persuade one of Europe's brightest young talents to join the Premier League club.

Mbappe ultimately joined Paris Saint-Germain on an initial loan deal in August 2017 before the move was made permanent for €180 million, making him one of the most expensive players in football history.

Klopp also revealed his frustration at repeatedly missing out on top French talents.

"It's extremely tough for me right now; I've already negotiated with three of their players and never got them," he said, referring to Mbappe, Aurelien Tchouameni and, possibly, Manu Kone.

The German coach's comments resurfaced after he was seen sharing a warm exchange with Mbappé following France's World Cup semi-final victory, underlining a relationship that dates back nearly a decade. Klopp also acknowledged Mbappe's mother, Fayza Lamari, from the stands during the match.

Despite Liverpool's extensive efforts, PSG secured Mbappe's signature, while Real Madrid also remained a strong contender for the forward before eventually signing him as a free agent in 2024.

Klopp's account offers a rare glimpse into one of football's most ambitious transfer pursuits, highlighting the extraordinary measures clubs can take in the race to sign generational talent.