Jurgen Klopp Reveals Liverpool's Ambitious Failed Bid to Sign Kylian Mbappe in 2017

Jurgen Klopp has disclosed details of Liverpool's unsuccessful attempt to recruit Kylian Mbappe in 2017, revealing that club owner John W. Henry took the player and his family on a two-hour private jet flight around the French Riviera. Despite the lavish courtship effort, Mbappe ultimately opted for Paris Saint-Germain, ending Liverpool's hopes of securing the then-Monaco prospect.

The Elaborate Recruitment Pitch

Speaking as a pundit for German television broadcaster Magenta TV during France's World Cup quarter-final victory over Morocco, Klopp detailed the unconventional recruitment strategy. The former Liverpool manager described how Henry orchestrated the mission from Blackpool to Nice, where the Mbappe family boarded a multi-room private aircraft for an exclusive tour of the bay. The delegation maintained secrecy throughout, circling the airspace while Klopp and Henry engaged in discussions with the family about the player's future at Anfield. Catering and hospitality were prioritized during the encounter, creating what Klopp characterized as an impressive demonstration of the club's intent.

Mbappe himself acknowledged the Liverpool contact years later, explaining in 2022 that meaningful negotiations had occurred. He noted that his mother's affinity for the club and its distinctive red kit made Liverpool a natural point of interest during his departure from Monaco. However, the forward ultimately signed with Paris Saint-Germain on an initial loan arrangement worth approximately €180 million (£157 million), establishing himself as one of world football's premier talents over seven seasons in the French capital.

Mbappe's Path Since Monaco

The striker's trajectory diverged significantly from Liverpool's hopes. After establishing himself in Paris, he later attracted renewed transfer speculation from Anfield as his contentment in France diminished. However, Mbappe ultimately joined Real Madrid in summer 2024, securing a permanent move to Spain instead. His current form demonstrates the caliber Liverpool sought to acquire, as he operates at elite goalscoring levels for both club and country. Klopp's recollection of the recruitment episode underscores the financial and operational resources Liverpool invested in pursuing elite talent, even when ultimately unsuccessful.